International authorities take “historic” step to curb shark fin trafficking

Adriana Lima
By Adriana Lima 1 Min Read
origin 1Confiscated shark fins © Wilfredo Lee/Copyright 2020 The AP. All rights reserved

Delegates to a global summit on trade in endangered species have taken a “historic” step to extend protection to 54 shark species.

The deal struck Friday at the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species in Panama City aims to tackle the lucrative trade in shark fins.

EU countries are selling shark fins to Asia at an alarming rate, study reveals

Panamanian delegate Shirley Binder told AFP the “historic decision” would mean many sharks that make up 90% of the market would now be protected.

Shark fin soup is seen as a delicacy in Asia and is often served at expensive weddings and banquets.

The proposal was unanimously adopted on the last day of the two-week meeting by delegates from 183 countries and the European Union.

Studies say the number of threatened shark species has more than doubled in the last decade.

Watch the video in the video player above to learn more.

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