Red tape hampers butterfly exports

BIAK, Irian Jaya: A foundation which coordinates exports of local rare butterflies said red tape was hampering the development of its trade, Antara reported on Monday.

Bina Lestari Bumi Cendrawasih Foundation, which buys butterflies from local people before exporting them, said obtaining licenses to export to Europe and the United States could take between three and five months.

Program coordinator Yoso Bumantoro said his organization could not meet all the demands from abroad because of the delays in getting export licenses.

The foundation has exported 2,014 butterflies for a total earning of US$10,083, Yoso said, adding that it paid up to Rp 250,000 ($28) per butterfly to the local people. (07)