The Ministry of Environmental Protection of Turkmenistan has officially approved a new set of regulations governing the import, export, purchase, and sale of birds of prey used in traditional falconry. This regulatory framework, enacted in February 2026, aims to organize the activities of falconers and strengthen the conservation of predatory birds such as eagles and falcons. The document was established to implement the national law on hunting and the protection of biological resources.

Under the new rules, all individuals and legal entities owning birds of prey are required to register them with the relevant authorities and the National Society of Falconers of Turkmenistan. The registration process is streamlined to take five business days, resulting in the issuance of an official certificate of ownership. This mandatory registration ensures that all captive birds are documented, supporting both cultural heritage and environmental monitoring.

The international movement of these birds is now strictly controlled through a specialized permit system. Since Turkmenistan joined the CITES Convention, additional international permits are required for species listed as endangered. Any attempt to bring birds into the country or take them abroad without these documents is strictly prohibited. This measure aligns Turkmenistan's domestic policies with international wildlife trade standards, preventing the illegal trafficking of rare species.

The regulations also clarify the legal procedures for changing ownership through sales, exchanges, or gifts. Owners must notify the authorized agencies of any such transactions to ensure the state registry remains accurate. By establishing these comprehensive rules, Turkmenistan aims to protect its ancient falconry traditions while ensuring that the exploitation of birds of prey remains sustainable and legally transparent.