A recent analysis by TRAFFIC and WWF-India has shed light on the rampant illegal trade of sharks in India, with nearly 16,000 kg of shark fins seized between January 2010 and December 2022. This illicit trade poses a significant threat to shark populations globally and highlights the urgent need for conservation efforts to safeguard these vulnerable species.
THE ALARMING STATISTICS: SHARK SEIZURES AND DESTINATIONS
According to the analysis, shark fins constituted the most common shark-derived product seized, accounting for over 80% of the seizures. Tamil Nadu accounted for nearly 65% of the shark seizure incidents, followed by other states such as Karnataka, Gujarat, Kerala, and Maharashtra. The confiscated products were destined for Singapore, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Sri Lanka, and mainland China.
THE DRIVING FORCES BEHIND ILLEGAL SHARK TRADE
The demand for shark fins and meat drives the global shark fishery, with shark fins being the most sought-after product used to make ‘shark-fin soup,’ a delicacy in many Asian countries. Despite conservation efforts, India remains one of the world’s largest shark fishing nations, fuelled by the popularity of shark meat as a local delicacy, especially along the Southern coast.
The demand for shark fins and meat is a major driver of the global shark fishery. Shark fins are the most sought-after shark product used to make ‘shark-fin soup,’ a delicacy, “said Dr Merwyn Fernandes, Associate Director of TRAFFIC’s India Office.
CONSERVATION CONCERNS AND THREATS
Overfishing, coupled with low biological productivity, puts shark species at a higher risk of extinction #compared to most other vertebrates. With over one-third of sharks and their Chondrichthyes relatives threatened worldwide, the illegal shark trade exacerbates these conservation concerns.
CHALLENGES IN CURBING ILLEGAL TRADE
Misdeclaring relevant species on permits and insufficient monitoring mechanisms are significant challenges in curbing the illicit trade of sharks. The lack of capacity to identify shark fins against numerous potential shark species further complicates efforts to differentiate between legal and illegal trade.
THE URGENT NEED FOR CONSERVATION ACTION
India’s illegal shark trade poses a serious conservation threat not only to sharks in India but globally. Concerted efforts are needed to strengthen monitoring and enforcement measures, enhance public awareness, and promote sustainable fishing practices to protect these iconic marine species for future generations.
As demand for shark products continues to rise, urgent action is needed to address the illegal trade and conserve shark populations. Through collaborative efforts between governments, conservation organizations, and local communities, we can work towards ensuring the survival of sharks and preserving the health of our oceans for generations to come.
