China crushed 100 tons from its stocks of confiscated elephant ivory . China accounts for 70 % of the world 's ivory market . According to the IFAW 's Jeff He , a rise in demand from Asia , and especially China , in recent years has fueled the black market and put increasing pressure on African elephants in the wild . The event comes two months after the U.S. crushed its own stockpile . Animal welfare groups welcomed the event as a first step to combat wildlife crime .
China crushed 100 tons from its stocks of confiscated elephant ivory . China accounts for 70 % of the world 's ivory market . The event comes two months after the U.S. crushed its own stockpile . Animal welfare groups welcomed the event as a first step to combat wildlife crime .