28 April 2006
Tiger skin prices fall in Lhasa
The prices of tiger and leopard skins dropped in Lhasa’s central market following widespread public protest in Tibet according to Indian wildlife protection sources. A tiger skin, which previously would sell for US$18,000 (UK££9,800; EUR€1,420) a year ago, is now about US $.10,000 (UK£5,545; EUR€7,890). Leopard skins that would sell for US $ 6000 (UK£3,270; EUR€4,730) have come down to US $2,500 UK£1,360; EUR€1,970). Conservationists in India have welcomed the news and believe that any fall in demand for wildlife skins is a positive development. Meanwhile, another burning of animal pelts was reported recently from Lithang County (Sichuan province). About US $ 60,000-$70,000 (UK£32,000 – £38,000; EUR€47,000 - €55,000) worth of animal pelts were reportedly burnt. The organizers had also asked people to refrain from sensitive slogans in order to avoid needless attention. They also sought permission from the authorities prior to the burning. About 1500 hundred people are said to have participated in the action.