Johannesburg

South Africa is considering to sell powdered rhino horn to "health tourists" from Asia in a bid to guard biodiversity, create jobs and boost economic growth as well as give a financial dividend to the historically white-dominated wildlife and conservation sectors.

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South African strategy also includes plans to market zebra, crocodile and other ­exotic meats for export, boost local consumption of game and expand trophy hunting on communal lands, The Times newspaper reported.

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The policy is out for public consultation and will be implemented after that process is over.

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But the criticism of the policy is more about the monetisation and consequent exploitation of wildlife, and the way "a farming ethic" is purportedly being applied to the wild animals.

'Like Rembrandts lying in the attic'

South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa, while defending the plan said that natural treasures in poor rural areas were "like Rembrandts lying in the attic". He added: "Those need to be brought to life. That is the residual capital that we have that needs to be utilised."

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Demand for rhino horn

Demand for rhino horn remains high in Asia, particularly in China. 

The Times report attributes the demand for rhino horn to a "new generation of millionaires". These individuals, the report adds, have driven the black market price of "grey gold" to £55,000 ($69,488) a ­kilogramme, higher than heroin. 

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In traditional Chinese medicine, rhino horn is claimed to cure ailments including cancer and erectile dysfunction.

The government originally gave the public until March 22 to respond to the document, which was released on March 8. The deadline has been extended to April 12.

(With inputs from agencies)