Japan and US Clash Over Eel Protections Amid Sharp Decline in Freshwater Populations

Eel populations worldwide have declined over 90% since the 1980s due to habitat loss, pollution, and illegal trade, prompting calls for international trade restrictions through CITES. However, Japan, China, and the US oppose new protections, citing sufficient national regulations and lack of evidence linking trade to declines. Conservationists argue that stricter international controls are vital for the species' survival and ecosystem health.