National Reports are the official documents by which countries report to the decision-making bodies of CMS and/or its instruments on the measures they have undertaken to implement the priorities of the instruments. National Reports provide an official record of national implementation of each instrument over time and collectively they draw the picture of the overall implementation of the instrument.

The National Reporting process is essential for the effective functioning of the instruments, and when properly carried out, can provide substantial benefits both to the instrument and to the country concerned. The reporting process holds immense value for the countries themselves by charting their own progress and identifying their future implementation priorities. It also helps countries to assess implementation and to plan with other countries. National Reporting provides information to increase awareness of national activities, help mainstream biodiversity issues across sectors and encourage and further investments in the national implementation of CMS and its instruments.