Important Update: Changes to CITES Article 10 Certificates for Tortoises in 2026
CITES Article 10 Policy Reform: What Changes for UK Keepers?
On June 23rd, 2026, a significant change in regulations will come into effect for three popular captive-bred Mediterranean tortoise species in Great Britain: Testudo graeca (Spur-thighed), Testudo hermanni (Hermann’s), and Testudo marginata (Marginated).
What is Changing?
From June 23rd, 2026, these three species will be added to CITES GB Annex X. This change removes the requirement for Article 10 certificates for captive-bred specimens of these species within Great Britain.
What You Need to Know
- Commercial Use: You will no longer need an Article 10 certificate to sell or trade these tortoises commercially within Great Britain from June 23rd, 2026 onwards.
- Documentary Evidence: While the official certificate is no longer required, you must maintain thorough documentation to prove that your tortoises were legally acquired and captive-bred. This includes breeding records, purchase receipts, and historical data.
- Marking: Microchipping will become voluntary rather than a legal requirement for commercial trade, though we highly recommend it for stock management and security.
- Cross-Border Movement: Please note that CITES documentation remains mandatory for any international movement (import/export).
- Northern Ireland: This change applies only to Great Britain (England, Scotland, and Wales). Northern Ireland continues to follow the EU Wildlife Trade Regulations, meaning Article 10 certificates are still required there.
Preparing for the Transition
If you are planning to sell or use these tortoises commercially before June 23rd, 2026, you must continue to follow the existing rules and hold valid Article 10 certificates.
For breeders, this transition simplifies the administrative process, but it places a greater responsibility on you to maintain clear, reliable records of your animals. As always, responsible record-keeping is the cornerstone of ethical tortoise breeding in the UK.