Full Breakdown
Historic Protections for Sharks and Rays at CITES CoP20
11/29/2025, 8:10:51 PM
Major Decisions at CITES CoP20
At the 20th Conference of the Parties (CoP20) of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), held in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, from November 24 to December 5, 2025, significant protections were granted to over 70 species of sharks and rays. The most notable decision was the uplisting of the critically endangered Oceanic whitetip shark (Carcharhinus longimanus) to Appendix I, which prohibits all international commercial trade of this species and its products. This decision reflects a growing recognition of the urgent need to protect marine species facing severe threats from overfishing and illegal trade.
Context and Background
Oceanic whitetip sharks have experienced population declines of over 80-90% in the past three generations, primarily due to relentless fishing pressures and a lucrative illegal fin trade. The decision to grant these sharks full protection marks a historic moment, as it is the first time a shark species has received such a designation under CITES. The proposal was championed by Panama and supported by 13 other countries, including New Zealand, Canada, and Sri Lanka.
Broader Implications for Marine Conservation
The decisions made at CoP20 are seen as a watershed moment for marine conservation. Luke Warwick, Director of Shark and Ray Conservation at the Wildlife Conservation Society, emphasized that these protections are vital for the health of marine ecosystems and the cultural heritage of Indigenous Peoples and local communities. The new regulations aim to close loopholes in the international market for shark products, addressing the alarming statistic that over 37% of shark and ray species are threatened with extinction.
Official Statements & Responses
Barbara Slee, Senior Program Manager at the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), stated, “For too long, sharks that have roamed our oceans for millions of years have been slaughtered for their fins and meat... This decision marks a vital step toward reversing that decline and preventing extinctions that once felt inevitable.” The collective efforts of countries across Latin America, Africa, the Pacific, and Asia were praised as a powerful show of solidarity in passing all shark and ray proposals at CoP20.
Criticism & Opposition
While the decisions were largely celebrated, some critics argue that the effectiveness of these protections will depend on the commitment of countries to enforce them. Concerns remain about the ongoing illegal trade in shark products, which has been documented at levels significantly higher than reported to CITES.
What's Next
The decisions made at CoP20 will require endorsement during the final plenary session and will take effect 90 days after the conference concludes. Conservationists and stakeholders are urged to maintain momentum for swift implementation of these protections to ensure the survival of these vulnerable species.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Today’s decision is a watershed moment for all sharks and rays,” — Luke Warwick, Director of Shark & Ray Conservation, Wildlife Conservation Society
- “For too long, sharks that have roamed our oceans for millions of years have been slaughtered for their fins and meat. People may fear sharks, but the truth is we pose a far greater threat to them—with more than 100 million killed every year. These new protections will help shift that balance and recognise and honour these sharks as more than just fishery commodities.” — Barbara Slee, Senior Program Manager, IFAW
The outcomes of CITES CoP20 represent a critical step in the global effort to protect marine biodiversity and combat the threats facing sharks and rays worldwide.
