Despite the evolution of our ecological knowledge and awareness of the great importance of predators — capable of shaping entire food webs — more than one hundred million sharks are still killed every year. Many of these animals are victims of shark finning, a cruel practice that involves cutting the fins off a freshly caught animal, which is then often thrown back into the sea while still alive and in agony. Shark fins are used to prepare a soup that is highly prized in Asian cuisine. In an effort to combat the decline of sharks, many species of which are at risk of extinction, Canada has decided to ban the import and sale of shark fins.

First G7 country to take this step

Canada has thus become the first G7 country to remove itself from this dark trade, which threatens the survival of endangered species. "Shark finning is an unquestionably destructive practice that is contributing to the global decline of sharks and poses a constant threat to ocean ecosystems," said Canadian fisheries minister Jonathan Wilkinson. "This measure is a clear example of Canada's commitment to marine conservation."

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The Wong-Tam battle

For this victory, sharks should be particularly grateful to Kristyn Wong-Tam, a Toronto city councillor. The woman, originally from Hong Kong, has in fact been fighting for years to ban the shark fin trade in Canada. After more than a decade of failed attempts, last week Wong-Tam achieved her goal; now, for final approval, only the "royal assent" of Queen Elizabeth II is still required.

The slaughter of sharks

According to the United Nations, every year, as a result of shark finning, 73 million sharks are killed, their fins served in several Asian countries, including at important ceremonies such as weddings and engagement parties. In Canadian waters this practice has been banned since 1994; however, until now Canada has continued to allow the import of fins, making it one of the largest global markets outside Asia. In 2018 the North American nation imported more than 130 tonnes of shark fins from China.

Sharks are still in danger

The ban will ease the pressure on the increasingly depleted shark populations; however, experts point out that overfishing, rather than shark finning, remains the main threat these ancient creatures must face. Biologists David Shiffman and Robert Hueter have highlighted that, while global demand for shark fins is declining, shark meat is becoming increasingly sought after.