Nicaragua exports nearly 50,000 exotic animals, earning $6.2 million in 2026

Nicaragua has exported nearly 50,000 exotic animal specimens in the first five months of 2026, earning approximately $6.2 million, according to the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (Marena). The exports encompass a variety of species, including red-eyed tree frogs, green geckos, common boas, and pink conchs.

Between January and May, Marena issued 146 CITES permits for the export of wildlife bred in authorized facilities. These exports generated $6.2 million in invoiced revenue. A total of 49,732 specimens were exported under these permits, destined for countries such as Thailand, France, Canada, Hong Kong, the United States, Mexico, Japan, and South Korea.

Marena emphasized that these exports adhere to CITES criteria, ensuring the sustainable use and conservation of biodiversity. Species in high demand include red-eyed tree frogs, poison dart frogs, glass frogs, green geckos, and common boas. Japan, the United States, Hong Kong, Germany, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Taiwan are the primary destinations for these exotic animals, which are largely purchased as pets.

While considered exotic abroad, these species are native to Nicaragua, a tropical country with over 12,400 fauna species. Nine zoocriaderos (captive-breeding facilities) are registered with the Ministry of Environment, with six of them actively involved in exports.