13/02/2017 (Agence Europe) – The crackdown on sales of ivory and rhinoceros' horns has been stepped up over recent months, as borne out by the increased cooperation between the national authorities and EUROPOL in tackling the illegal trafficking of endangered species. Member states are getting to grips with the implementation of the EU action plan by getting the business community more involved but there is still a lot to be done. This was the balance sheet drawn up by Commissioners Vella (Environment) and King (Union of Security) during a conference organised on 8 February in Brussels. In 2017, their priority will be to jointly implement with EU partners, the decisions adopted in October 2016 during the CITES meeting (see EUROPE 11639). The Commission has mobilised the EU business sector, particularly the pet trade sector and aviation to prevent Europe being used as a market, transit point or source for illegal wildlife products. (AN)