From Malay Mail · · 50s
Five Baby Orangutans Exposed India's Exotic Pet Trade
India's exotic pet market fuels illegal wildlife trade with endangered species.
In brief
India's exotic pet market fuels illegal wildlife trade with endangered species. Five baby orangutans found in Odisha forest reveal India's $42.6m illegal exotic pet trade involving endangered species smuggled through Myanmar. Originally reported by Malay Mail.
Discovery
Five baby orangutans found in Odisha forest.
Market Scale
India's exotic pet market valued at $42.6m in 2024.
Smuggling Route
Traffickers use Myanmar-India border for illegal wildlife trade.
Social Media Demand
Social media influencers promote exotic pets online.
Seizures
4,000 exotic animals seized in 2022 alone.
Private Zoos
Private zoos hold endangered primates illegally.
Porous Border
Myanmar-India border is key trafficking route.
Current Investigation
Police investigating how orangutans reached Odisha.
International Response
Indonesia requests orangutan return.
The big picture
Five baby orangutans found in Odisha forest reveal India's $42.6m illegal exotic pet trade involving endangered species smuggled through Myanmar.
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