Tokay Gecko Trade Flourishes on Indonesian Marketplaces Amid Regulatory Questions

The open trade of Tokay geckos (Gekko gecko) on several major online marketplaces in Indonesia has been brought to light by an investigation by Mongabay Indonesia. One seller is offering live Tokay geckos for Rp30,500 per individual, with reported stock reaching 493 geckos and multiple sales already made. The seller also claims various medicinal benefits, including stamina enhancement, asthma relief, and even cancer treatment. This unrestricted trade has raised concerns among experts. Amir Hamidy, a Professor of Biosystematics and Evolution at the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), emphasized the importance of regulating international trade following the Tokay gecko's inclusion in Appendix II of CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) in 2019. While Appendix II listing does not necessarily mean the species is endangered, it mandates regulated international trade to ensure traceability and sustainability. As a party to CITES Appendix II, Indonesia is obligated to ensure that international trade does not threaten wild populations. A key requirement is the preparation of a Non-Detriment Finding (NDF), a scientific assessment to confirm that the utilization of Tokay geckos does not negatively impact the species' conservation. This process begins with population surveys across various regions in Indonesia to determine the exact number and distribution of Tokay geckos. According to the IUCN Red List, the Tokay gecko is currently listed as 'Least Concern,' indicating a low risk of extinction. However, Professor Amir stressed that an NDF requires comprehensive population data. "We must first know how many individuals there are, where they are distributed, and what their reproductive capacity is. Then, we can calculate how many can be utilized," he explained. The current unregulated trade on online platforms raises questions about whether these regulations and scientifically based harvesting quotas are being properly implemented. Unregulated trade, even for a species currently listed as Least Concern, could potentially lead to a decline in wild populations in the future.