New wildlife trade protections granted to over 70 species of sharks and rays

On Friday, the leading international wildlife trade organization adopted stronger safeguards for over 70 shark and ray species, a decision conservationists have described as a "historic achievement."

Members of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) agreed to enhance trade restrictions on animals ranging from whale sharks to manta rays during meetings in Uzbekistan.

Experts have repeatedly highlighted that shark and ray populations are under increasing threat from overfishing and climate-related pressures. Barbara Slee, senior program manager at the International Fund for Animal Welfare, stated, "This is a historic victory for sharks. Scientific evidence clearly shows that sharks should be prioritized for conservation rather than treated as mere fishing resources."

CITES oversees trade in more than 40,000 species, banning commerce of the most endangered species listed under Appendix I and regulating trade in threatened species under Appendix II.

As part of Fridays resolutions, whale sharks, manta rays, and devil rays were moved to Appendix I, following the recent inclusion of the critically endangered oceanic whitetip shark. Other species, such as tope and smooth-hound sharksoften harvested for meatand gulper sharks, targeted for liver oil, were added to Appendix II, allowing trade only under sustainable conditions.

After intense discussions regarding the trade of other species, including eels, the proposal to increase shark and ray protections was passed by consensus, reflecting a shift in global attitudes toward these marine animals. Slee commented, "This should signal the end of overfishing and bring a renewed hope for sharks."

The International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) reports that over a third of shark and ray species face extinction risks, mainly from overfishing. Many are specifically hunted for their fins, liver, or meat, while others are unintentionally caught in nets targeting different species.

Author's Commentary: A Crucial Step Forward for Shark and Ray Conservation

The decision made by CITES to impose stricter trade regulations on over 70 species of sharks and rays is an important milestone in the fight against overfishing and the degradation of marine ecosystems. With this historic move, these species—some of which are on the brink of extinction—will receive enhanced protections that are desperately needed. By upgrading whale sharks, manta rays, and devil rays to Appendix I and placing other species such as tope and smooth-hound sharks under more stringent controls, CITES has acknowledged the urgent need for a global shift in how we view and treat marine wildlife.

From a broader perspective, the decision is not only a win for environmentalists and conservationists, but it also signifies a shift in international policy that prioritizes sustainability over short-term economic gain. As experts like Barbara Slee have noted, the overwhelming scientific evidence calls for the protection of sharks, not their exploitation. The enhanced regulations should help curb overfishing, prevent illegal trade, and bring about a positive change in how these vital creatures are regarded by global industries.

In conclusion, while this decision is a critical victory, it is just one piece of the larger puzzle. The international community must continue to work together to ensure that the new regulations are enforced and expanded to include other at-risk species. With continued vigilance and collaboration, there is hope that we can halt the downward trajectory of shark and ray populations and secure a more sustainable future for our oceans.

Sources:

• Over 70 shark, ray species win new wildlife trade protections