A prominent member of a United Nations body that helps to regulate the trade in endangered animals has been accused of being a representative of the shark-fin industry which is driving some species of the fish towards extinction.
Giam Choo Hoo is a member of the committee that provides a scientific evaluation of the threats to species covered by the UN’s Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species.
However, on the eve of a crucial meeting in Geneva to discuss the protection of sharks, some have alleged he is a representative of a fishing industry which supplies shark fins to make soup in China. “Dr Giam represents the interests of trade. He tries very hard to block any conservation actions, particularly reptiles and fish,” Sue Lieberman, a delegate who works for the Brussels-based Pew Environment Group, said.
A member of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons in London, Dr Giam yesterday dismissed concerns about his business interests. “To me it’s irrelevant. You judge me by what I say, not by whether or not I have ties to the fin industry,” he said.
An estimated 73 million sharks are killed every year with shark fins selling for as much as £250 a kilogram.