IFAW (International Fund for Animal Welfare) applauded the decision by governments attending CoP19 in Panama City, Panama, to list all 54 species of the requiem shark family on CITES Appendix II, introducing new sustainability requirements for international trade to be permitted.

“IFAW applauds governments for this historic decision to control the unsustainable global trade in shark fins and meat, a trade that has driven some of these ecologically important predators to extinction,” said Barbara Slee, Senior Program Manager of International Policy at IFAW.

“This vote has the potential to transform shark conservation by providing much-needed protection for species that have long been overlooked,” Slee added. “Panama and its partner governments have provided a clear path for these species’ survival.” IFAW has long advocated for such action and looks forward to working with governments to improve shark fishery management as a result of this change.”

When combined with additional shark and ray listing proposals that will be voted on soon, the three proposals would subject nearly all shark species traded internationally for their fins to CITES oversight and controls, up from only 25% prior to CoP19. Because nearly all species are now included in the global shark fin trade, customs and enforcement officials will have a much easier time ensuring that only legal and sustainable trade is taking place, as virtually any shipment of shark products will require a permit demonstrating that trade meets legal and sustainable requirements for international trade in CITES Appendix II listed species. There are few restrictions in place at the moment, and most shark fisheries around the world have little to no management.

Source: Prnewswire