It is obtained from the fine under-fleece of the Tibetan antelope ( Pantholops hodgsonii ), which lives on the high-altitude Tibetan plateau.

Despite the bans, an underground black market persists, though buyers face severe legal risks. Killing me softly | South China Morning Post

It is a non-bailable criminal offense under the Wildlife Protection Act 1972 . USA: It is illegal under the Endangered Species Act . UK: It is a criminal offense under COTES Regulations .