The illegal trade in shark fins threatens several shark species with extinction, according to a new study led by researchers from Florida International University. This peer-reviewed research, published in Science Advances, highlights that fins from four out of five shark species protected under the Convention on International Trade of Endangered Species (CITES) continue to be readily available in markets across Hong Kong, the world’s primary hub for shark fins.
The study identifies three large hammerhead species—the scalloped, smooth, and great hammerhead—along with the porbeagle and the oceanic whitetip as particularly vulnerable. Dr. Demian Chapman, project leader and director of the Shark and Rays Conservation Research Program at Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium in Sarasota, Florida, stated, “Many sharks may be headed toward extinction. The international trade of shark products, particularly dried fins used in the luxury dish shark fin soup, is driving fishing pressure beyond sustainable levels.”
Despite regulations implemented in March 2014 requiring all trade of these species to be reported and certified as non-threatening, the research reveals that 81 percent of shark-fin-exporting countries have failed to report any trade in these listed species. This suggests that illegal exports persist at alarming levels. Dr. Diego Cardeñosa, the study’s lead author, emphasized the discrepancy between official regulations and actual practices, noting that “DNA evidence clearly shows these protected species are still entering the global market at alarming rates.”
Researchers flagged several nations likely involved in the illegal shark fin trade, including Spain, Taiwan, the United Arab Emirates, China, the Philippines, Ghana, and Brazil. Each year, millions of pounds of shark meat and fins circulate through international markets, with Hong Kong as the leading center for shark fin sales, utilized for soup, traditional medicine, and by trophy hunters. This high demand fuels shark hunting, often accompanied by cruel practices such as shark finning, where fins are removed from live sharks and the animals are discarded, left to die.
Dr. Cardeñosa warned, “We are reaching a major tipping point where if the fishing and trade of these species is not meaningfully reduced, then these sharks will disappear.” The potential extinction of these top predators could lead to significant and unpredictable changes in marine ecosystems, adversely impacting global biodiversity and human interests.
Despite the grave circumstances, the research team remains hopeful about the future of shark populations. Dr. Chapman concluded, “Shedding light on this problem is a major step toward solving it.” The findings underscore the urgent need for enhanced enforcement of international trade regulations and increased awareness to ensure the survival of these ancient marine creatures.
