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Safeguarding natural resources
The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) plays a key role in regulating global trade in species at risk of extinction. Many natural raw materials used in fragrance creation are sourced from plants and animals that may fall under CITES oversight. IFRA works proactively to monitor these developments, assess potential risks, and support sustainable sourcing for the fragrance industry.
How IFRA engages with CITES
Natural ingredients remain a vital part of the fragrance palette. However, some of these materials may originate from species that are vulnerable or threatened. CITES governs how international trade in these species is regulated to prevent further harm.
To ensure that fragrance industry activities align with biodiversity protection, IFRA undertook a detailed review of the natural materials used by its members. This assessment was conducted together with a specialized external consultant with extensive CITES expertise. In addition, IFRA collaborated with the International Society of Perfumer Creators (ISPC) to understand the creative importance of these materials in fragrance design.
The review identified four fragrance materials that may face a heightened risk of being subject to CITES restrictions in the future. These materials have been prioritized within IFRA’s 2025 work program for further analysis. In the next phase, IFRA will examine the full supply chains of these materials to identify where targeted interventions could reduce the risk of future trade restrictions, while also supporting conservation goals.
Through this work, IFRA seeks to contribute both to the long-term sustainability of fragrance creation and to the protection of the planet’s biodiversity.
“Protecting biodiversity is essential for the future of both nature and fragrance.”
- Matthias Vey, Vice President, Scientific Affairs, IFRA
04 February 2026
News
IFRA publishes Annual Report 2025 highlighting global engagement, regulatory progress and sustainability leadership
Geneva, 4 February 2026 – The International Fragrance Association (IFRA) has published its Annual Report 2025, marking a year defined by global connection, scientific progress and strengthened engagement with regulators, members and stakeholders worldwide.
05 August 2025 15:00 - 18:00
Events
FICCI-IFRA Webinar on Impact of the New Biological Diversity Act, 2023 & Biodiversity Rule, 2024.
The Biological Diversity Act, 2023, marks a major reform aimed at strengthening biodiversity governance in India. With a renewed focus on ease of compliance, conservation, and sustainable use, the Act has now been further simplified and operationalized through the Biodiversity Rules, 2024, making it easier for stakeholders to understand and adopt.