SciencePolitics

Why demand persists for the horn of a once near-extinct antelope

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Based on a feed excerpt; full article content has not been acquired. Source evidence retrieved 09/11/2026, 16:25:24 UTC.

Briefings

A University of Oxford study published in People and Nature explains that demand for saiga antelope horn persists in Singapore due to family traditions, misconceptions about horn origins, and the belief that shop remedies are government-approved. The study attributes this demand to cultural factors rather than medical necessity.

Key points

• Demand for saiga antelope horn in Singapore is driven by family traditions and misconceptions about horn origins.
• Consumers believe remedies sold in shops are government-approved, leading to continued demand despite the animal's near-extinction status.

Context

The study, led by researchers from the University of Oxford, was published in the journal People and Nature. It highlights cultural beliefs as a primary driver for demand in Singapore, where the saiga antelope is critically endangered.

Limitations

The evidence is limited to a single study published in 2026. It does not provide data on specific numbers of horn sales, government approval status of remedies, or long-term trends in demand.

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