Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species

Safeguarding natural ingredients through international cooperation

Matthias Vey, Vice-President Scientific Affairs at IFRA, outlines the Association’s engagement with CITES to support the responsible trade of natural fragrance ingredients. Naturals such as tonka, frankincense and oud are essential to perfumery but can be affected by biodiversity constraints and trade restrictions. 

IFRA works as an accredited observer to CITES, contributing scientific and supply-chain expertise to ensure proportionate measures that protect species while keeping materials available in trade. 

A key achievement has been securing exemptions for finished fragrance mixtures once raw materials are certified, significantly reducing administrative burden without weakening protection. Through collaboration with partners and regulators, IFRA helps shape balanced outcomes that support conservation, compliance and creative perfumery.

This video taken from IFRA Global Fragrance Summit 2025