"It's the right thing to do," said eBay vice president of policy management Matt Halprin.

People trying to sell ivory products without crossing international borders must prove the offers conform to local laws, according to eBay spokeswoman Nichola Sharpe.

The restrictions take force by the end of this month.

"What we are doing now is strengthening our ivory policy to ban all cross-border trade and provide clarity to those who wish to buy or sell ivory on eBay sites," Halprin said.

By the end of June, eBay sellers will be allowed to list only ivory products for sale in their own country.

The company said it will take down listings of ivory products that offer international shipping.

"The fundamental principle of eBay is that it is a marketplace where consumers can buy and sell almost anything," Halprin said.

"However, there are instances where our policies go above and beyond upholding existing domestic or international regulations. This is the case with ivory."

The announcement comes as environmental and animal protection groups intensify pressure to eradicate illegal traffic in endangered species from the Internet.

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