Brussels calls for evidence on a potential ban on sales of loose shark fins

The aim is to ensure the most well-informed, participatory, and transparent way of deciding on the follow-up to the 2023 European citizens’ initiative “Stop Finning – Stop the Trade”, the Commission said.

According to EU Commissioner for Environment, Oceans and Fisheries, Virginijus Sinkevicius, “Stop Finning – Stop the Trade” pointed to an issue that is critically important for the health of the marine eco-systems.

“We committed to thoroughly consider this matter and to run an impact assessment on trade measures that could potentially halt shark finning and support shark conservation efforts. Now, we turn to the stakeholders, to receive valuable insights on the environmental, social and economic implications of such measures,” he said. “I am confident that the feedback we will receive through this call for evidence will allow us to draw appropriate conclusions and take well-informed decisions stepping up EU’s shark protection.”

The call for evidence is addressed to organisations and individuals involved in conservation of marine resources; stakeholders with related economic interests; researchers; and consumer representatives.

Brussels’ call is open for a period of 12 weeks, until 16 May 2024. During this time, the European Commission will also publish an open public consultation with an online questionnaire. The feedback received through both the call for evidence and the upcoming consultation will feed into an ongoing impact assessment process.

As part of its response, the Commission is considering measures to step up shark protection. It includes the possibility to only allow commercialisation of sharks with their fins attached – be it for consumption within the EU or for international trade.

The Commission has acknowledged that shark finning is one of the main threats for the conservation of these species.