EU strengthens shark conservation with new trade codes, public consultation, and global advocacy for protection
Monitoring Shark Product Trade Begins January 2025
The European Commission has announced significant updates to its shark conservation and management efforts, following the European Citizens’ Initiative (ECI) ‘Stop finning – Stop the trade.’ From January 2025, 13 new tariff codes will be introduced to monitor the trade of shark products, including fins, across the EU. These codes will allow for detailed tracking of shark species such as the blue shark and shortfin mako, enhancing transparency in import and export data. The data will be publicly accessible through the Eurostat international trade database.
Impact Assessment Progress
The Commission has also concluded the first stage of its impact assessment on implementing a trade ban on detached shark fins. This assessment was shaped by an extensive public consultation held from February to July 2024, which drew 3,455 responses, predominantly from EU citizens. The consultation revealed overwhelming support for stricter shark conservation measures, with 87% of participants deeming current EU regulations insufficient.
The findings will inform the next stages of the impact assessment, including an external study in 2025. The Commission aims to evaluate the environmental, economic, and social impacts of potential measures.
Strengthened Existing Measures and Global Advocacy
While conducting the assessment, the Commission will continue enforcing current regulations and improving traceability in shark product trade. It will also intensify its international advocacy for a global ban on shark finning, aligning with the EU’s longstanding commitment to shark conservation.
Background and Ongoing Challenges
Sharks are critical to marine ecosystems but face significant threats from human activity. Over one-third of shark species are at risk of extinction. Despite the 2003 EU ban on shark finning, issues such as bycatch and international trade persist. The ECI, supported by over 1 million EU citizens, prompted the Commission to explore more stringent policies, including trade bans and global partnerships to protect sharks.
Public Engagement and Next Steps
The consultation also highlighted alternative policy suggestions, including stronger enforcement of existing measures, sustainability certifications, and bilateral agreements for sustainable shark product supply. The Commission will consider these as part of its ongoing evaluation. Public awareness and stakeholder collaboration remain central to the EU’s strategy, ensuring that conservation measures balance environmental, economic, and social sustainability.
The Commission’s actions mark a critical step in global shark conservation, aiming to protect marine biodiversity while responding to public demand for stronger measures.
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