Shark Finning: Welfare and Conservation Dimensions of a Global Trade

Shark finning — removing fins and discarding bodies at sea — causes severe suffering and is driving many shark species toward extinction. Understanding both dimensions strengthens the case for prohibition.

Key Facts

An estimated 100 million sharks are killed annually, with the fin trade a major driver
Sharks are often finned alive and returned to the water, where they sink and die slowly
Over 70 shark species are now threatened or near-threatened with extinction according to IUCN
Fins are primarily used in shark fin soup, a traditional status dish in some Asian cultures
The EU banned finning at sea in 2013 but enforcement challenges remain
Several countries including Canada have banned shark fin imports to address both welfare and conservation

Welfare Considerations

Shark finning causes extreme suffering. Sharks that are finned alive experience the equivalent of having their limbs amputated and then being thrown back unable to swim, slowly suffocating or being eaten by other predators. The process is done for efficiency — whole sharks take more space in vessel holds than just fins. Beyond the cruelty to individual animals, the decimation of shark populations has profound ecosystem consequences given their role as apex predators. The welfare and conservation cases for shark fin trade prohibition are mutually reinforcing.

What You Can Do

Avoid shark fin soup and products containing shark fin
Support campaigns for shark fin import bans in your country
Engage with Chinese community organisations on sustainable alternatives to shark fin soup
Donate to shark conservation organisations such as Shark Advocates International
Support marine protected areas that include provisions against shark finning within their boundaries