Conservation body favors export ban on bluefin tuna at upcoming meeting on endangered species

Conservation body favors bluefin tuna export ban

GENEVA — The agency that monitors trade in endangered species says it favors a global ban on the export of bluefin tuna.

The group that oversees the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species, or CITES, says the ban on bluefin tuna trade is scientifically justified.

Scientific chief David Morgan says CITES is “recommending that the parties accept the proposal,” which is strongly opposed by Japan, where tuna is a popular ingredient in sushi.

The 175 nations that are members of CITES will meet in Qatar’s capital of Doha from March 13-25 to consider 42 conservation proposals.

Morgan said Friday, however, that the oversight body doesn’t support a U.S. proposal to ban the trade in polar bear products.