At its 16th meeting of the Conference of Par ties held in Bangkok March 3-14, the Convention on International Trade on Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) decided to include Oceanic Whitetip Shark, three species each of Hammerhead Shark and Porbeagle in its Appendix II requiring expor ting country’s certificate in international trade.
The proposals for inclusion of those species were adopted despite the opposition from some members that (1) it is appropriate to leave their management to regional fisheries management organizations (RFMOs) because management measures have already been in place at relevant RFMOs and (2) there is no evidence that shows current international trade is affecting the species.
During the meeting, several Contracting Parties tabled proposals intending to limit the use of the secret ballot system. But all these proposals were rejected and the current system was maintained, allowing small countries hold fast their will without succumbing to the pressures from powerful countries and environmental NGOs.
The next CITES meeting will be held in South Africa in 2016.