South Africa loses appeal to block legal rhino horn exports

A private conservationist, Wicus Diedericks, owner of a game reserve in the Northern Cape province, sued the government to authorize the export of over 500 white rhino horns. In 2025, the Northern Cape High Court ruled in his favor, stating that horn from captive-bred white rhinos for conservation could qualify for export certificates. The same court dismissed the government's application for leave to appeal this judgment on Friday.

Diedericks stated this decision validates the rights of private conservationists to fund their protection efforts, potentially saving the species and funding conservation. The environment department indicated that Minister David Maynier is considering the judgment and will decide on a further appeal. Trade in rhino horn has been globally banned since 1977 under CITES.

While supporters argue the ban protects wild rhino populations, advocates for legal trade believe regulated sales could fund conservation and reduce black-market demand. The British NGO Environmental Investigation Agency called Diedericks' lawsuit a "reckless gambit," fearing it could increase demand and fuel illegal trafficking. South Africa has the world's largest rhino population but is also a poaching hotspot due to demand for rhino horn in Asia.