No, owning a raccoon in Egypt is prohibited under the 2023 Wildlife Protection Law (Law No. 102/2023), enforced by the Egyptian Environmental Affairs Agency (EEAA), which classifies raccoons as invasive species. Exotic pet permits are rarely granted, and illegal possession risks fines up to EGP 500,000 or confiscation.
Key Regulations for Owning a Raccoon in Egypt
- Prohibition under Law No. 102/2023: Raccoons are listed in Annex III as prohibited species, requiring no special permit for confiscation under Article 42.
- EEAA Enforcement: The agency conducts periodic inspections at pet markets and private residences, particularly in Cairo and Alexandria, targeting illegal exotic pet trade.
- Penalties for Non-Compliance: Violations trigger administrative fines (EGP 100,000–500,000) and mandatory euthanasia or relocation to state-approved sanctuaries, per Ministerial Decree 2024/11.
Recent 2026 amendments to the law further restrict exotic pet ownership, aligning with CITES obligations and Egypt’s invasive species management plan. Exceptions for research or conservation require pre-approval from the EEAA’s Scientific Committee, a process with <5% approval rates.