Nearly two weeks after China decided to lift a ban on the use of tiger and rhinoceros parts, the country has decided to reinstate it — at least, for now.
A senior government official told state media Monday three "strict bans" on the trade, sale and use of tiger and rhino products will continue to be enforced.
Last month, the Chinese government announced that tiger and rhino parts could legally be used in "medical research or in healing," as long as those parts came from farmed animals.
Conservationists immediately criticized the move and called on China to reverse its decision in order to protect both species.
Chinese officials didn't give a reason for reinstating the ban, and it's unclear if the change will be permanent.
