Shark Fins Prohibition
Shark Fins Prohibition
Important Reminder
The Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) has issued a reminder that shark fins and parts of shark fins that are not attached to a shark carcass are prohibited from being imported into or exported from Canada unless a DFO permit has been issued by the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard authorizing the import or export.
Exception
Under the Fisheries Act, both importers and exporters may apply for a DFO permit. The permit will only be issued if the purpose for the importation or exportation is scientific research related to shark conservation or the survival of any wild shark species.
For more information regarding DFO permits, please email dfo.sp.er.trade-commerce.re.ps.mpo@dfo-mpo.gc.ca.
In addition, shark species that are protected under the Convention of International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) will require the necessary CITES permits when being imported into and exported from Canada. To see a list of current protected species, please visit speciesplus.net.
Important Information