The World Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ (WAZA) Code of Ethics acknowledges that, from time to time, acquisitions from the wild are needed, based on a legitimate need for conservation breeding programmes, education programmes or basic biological studies. With regard to the intention to import wild African Elephants from Namibia involving WAZA’s member Al Ain Zoo, WAZA has examined the information provided by this zoological institution and others. Based on a review of the information provided, WAZA has not been able to determine that the requirements of WAZA’s Code of Ethics are met.