BEIJING, Feb. 24 (Xinhua) -- The Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, or China's top legislature, during a session Monday adopted a decision on thoroughly banning the illegal trading of wildlife and eliminating the consumption of wild animals to safeguard people's lives and health.
The move aims to safeguard biological and ecological security and effectively prevent major public health risks, among other purposes.
The consumption of terrestrial wild animals "of important ecological, scientific and social value" that are under state protection, as well as other terrestrial wild animals, including those that are bred or reared in captivity, shall be thoroughly prohibited, according to the decision.
The hunting, trading and transportation of terrestrial wild animals that naturally grow and breed in the wild for the purpose of consumption shall also be completely prohibited.
The decision stipulates that illegal consumption and trade of wildlife should be severely punished.
The decision takes effect on the day of its promulgation.
