The latest Europe news brings a notable shift in marine conservation policy: the European Union’s shark fin trade is shrinking, even as Brussels considers tougher restrictions. For readers tracking ireland news, irish news, and wider environmental policy across the continent, the decline signals both progress for wildlife protection and fresh debate over how far the EU should go.
According to newly cited Eurostat figures, EU shark fin exports fell by 15% between 2024 and 2025. Even with that drop, the trade remains sizeable, with nearly 3,000 tonnes of shark fins exported outside the bloc last year. The figures underline why this remains major Europe news for conservation groups, fishing industries, and policymakers alike.
Europe News: Why the EU Shark Fin Trade Is Falling
A key factor behind the downturn appears to be tighter international controls under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES). Stronger inspection regimes and stricter traceability requirements have increased pressure on producers and exporters. The convention also widened protections to dozens of additional shark species, although blue sharks were not added to that list.
Blue sharks still dominate the market. They account for roughly 97% of sharks caught for fins and exported frozen by EU countries, while shortfin mako sharks make up most of the remainder.
- EU shark fin exports fell 15% year on year
- Exports still totalled close to 3,000 tonnes in 2025
- Blue sharks represented the vast majority of the trade
- Main destinations included Singapore, mainland China, Hong Kong, Japan and Vietnam
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Which EU Countries Export the Most Shark Fins?
Spain remains the bloc’s leading exporter by a wide margin. Research by the International Fund for Animal Welfare found Spain exported at least 52,000 tonnes of shark fins outside the EU between 2003 and 2020. Portugal, the Netherlands, France, and Italy also play roles in the trade, though on a much smaller scale.
This is significant Europe news because the EU exports far more shark fins than it imports. Imports into the bloc are comparatively limited, standing at around 20 tonnes and worth roughly €0.3 million.
Where the Shark Fins Go
The biggest buyers are in Asia. Singapore and mainland China each take about 40% of total EU exports, with additional shipments going to Hong Kong, Japan, and Vietnam. Demand is largely linked to the high market value of fins used in luxury food products such as shark fin soup.
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Why the Trade Remains Controversial
The issue continues to dominate Europe news coverage because of both ecological and ethical concerns. Sharks are apex predators, meaning they are essential to the balance of marine ecosystems. Reductions in shark populations can disrupt entire ocean food chains.
The trade has also long been associated with finning, the practice of removing fins and discarding the body at sea. That practice is already banned in the EU under the “Fins Naturally Attached” rule, which requires sharks to be landed with their fins still attached.
Brussels is now assessing whether to go further by banning detached shark fin imports altogether. Supporters say that would close loopholes and strengthen enforcement, while critics may argue it could hit parts of the seafood trade.
FAQs on the EU Shark Fin Trade
Is shark finning legal in the EU?
No. EU rules require sharks to be brought ashore with fins naturally attached, making finning illegal.
Why is this important in Europe news?
It combines trade, biodiversity, food regulation, and conservation policy, all of which have cross-border importance in the EU.
Which country exports the most shark fins in the EU?
Spain is the largest exporter by a considerable margin.
Conclusion
This Europe news story shows the EU is moving, albeit gradually, toward tighter control of the shark fin trade. Export volumes are falling, scrutiny is rising, and a broader ban may yet follow. For anyone following ireland news, irish news, and European environmental regulation, the clear takeaway is that shark conservation is becoming a more serious policy priority across the bloc.
