Tashkent, Uzbekistan – November 25, 2025 – Japan has announced it will oppose global eel trade restrictions proposed by the European Union at the ongoing CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species) summit. The EU-led proposal seeks to regulate trade in all eel species, including the Japanese eel, which dominates Japan’s domestic market. A committee vote is scheduled for November 27, 2025, and the outcome could significantly impact eel supply, pricing, and the seafood industry in Japan.
Japan’s Concerns Over Global Eel Trade Restrictions
As the world’s largest consumer of eel, Japan imports nearly 70% of its eel supply, primarily from international sources. Officials warn that the proposed trade restrictions, which would place all Anguilla eel species under Appendix II of the Washington Convention, could disrupt imports, increase costs, and affect both businesses and consumers. Appendix II listing would require stricter export permits and monitoring of both juvenile and adult eels, as well as processed eel products, starting two years after adoption.
The EU Proposal and Environmental Rationale
Proponents of the proposal argue that eel populations are declining globally and point to mislabeling risks, as Japanese and European eels are visually similar. The CITES secretariat endorsed the plan in October, but approval requires a two-thirds majority among the convention’s roughly 180 member countries.
Japan’s Position on Eel Resource Management
Japan’s Fisheries Agency maintains that its eel resources are responsibly managed and that domestic stock levels are sufficient for sustainable consumption. However, researchers like Hiromi Shiraishi from Chuo University caution that current management may not fully address illegal fishing and other conservation gaps.
Industry leaders also weighed in. Masahiro Yamamoto, president of the Naruse Unagi restaurant chain, acknowledged the need for conservation measures but warned that further trade restrictions may be premature. “Scientific understanding of eel populations is still evolving, and overly strict regulations could harm both the industry and consumers,” he said.
Global Implications of Eel Trade Restrictions
If adopted, the CITES proposal would have widespread implications for global eel trade, affecting exporters, importers, and seafood markets worldwide. Countries like Japan, heavily reliant on eel imports, argue that trade regulations must balance conservation goals with economic and supply considerations.
Japan’s opposition highlights the ongoing tension between environmental conservation efforts and industry sustainability, particularly for species that are both economically and culturally significant. For further details on the CITES summit and eel trade discussions, see Asahi.com.
Looking Ahead
As the CITES committee prepares to vote, Japan continues to advocate for science-based conservation policies and measured international cooperation that ensures both sustainable eel populations and the stability of domestic markets. The upcoming vote on November 27 will be closely watched by governments, environmental organizations, and the seafood industry worldwide.