South Africa’s newly appointed Environmental Minister, Willie Aucamp, has published draft export quotas for hunting trophies of elephants, black rhinos and leopards — marking the first such proposal since 2021.
The draft measures, now open for a 30-day public comment period, aim to reintroduce regulated export limits for three of the country’s most commercially valuable big-game species. The move comes after industry groups reported significant financial losses following the suspension of quotas four years ago.
Under the proposal, the elephant quota would allow the export of up to 300 tusks, representing no more than 150 animals. The plan also includes 12 black rhino trophies and 11 leopard trophies sourced from designated hunting zones where populations are considered stable or increasing.
According to government data, South Africa’s elephant population has expanded by 41% since 2006, currently exceeding 43,500 animals. International regulations under CITES limit black rhino exports to 0.5% of the national subspecies population.
Research conducted by North-West University in 2025 estimates that hunting tourism contributes approximately R44 billion to South Africa’s economy annually. The sector supports agriculture, accommodation, transport and related services, with around 95,000 jobs linked to the industry.
However, conservation groups argue that trophy hunting risks undermining endangered species protection and may affect the country’s global reputation. The final decision will depend on the outcome of the public consultation process.
Source: South African Department of Environment; North-West University 2025 Hunting Tourism Research; Statements from Environmental Minister Willie Aucamp.
