“This makes identifying the species very challenging for authorities, and it’s very difficult for them to tell, is this a protected species? Is it an unprotected species?” said Dr Clark-Chen. MORE SPECIES NOW PROTECTED Shark meat remains widely available in Singapore at seafood restaurants and supermarkets. Shark meat – from sharks that can be sold without a permit – can also be found at mixed rice stalls for about S$2.50 per serving. These are often bamboo sharks which have a catfish-like appearance. With more species
under protection, experts warn that consumers may unknowingly buy illegal products, especially when fish are sold in chopped form and mixed with legal species. Many shark and ray species are protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). These species are overfished or on the brink of extinction and require permits for trade. CITES regulates the international trade of wild animals and plants to ensure that it does not threaten their survival. Singapore became a signatory to
the convention in 1986. In 2023, 54 shark and ray species were given increased global protection under CITES Appendix II, meaning permits are required for trade. Since 2025, some species – including the oceanic whitetip shark, whale shark and all manta rays – have been moved to Appendix I as they are now endangered or critically endangered. This means they have been completely banned from international commercial trade. Countries can also fully ban exports of wedgefish and giant guitarfish, some of which have reportedly been
seen in Singapore’s markets.
Singapore, sharks, rays, CITES, Appendix I, Appendix II, wildlife trade, seafood markets, permits, Dr Clark-Chen, bamboo sharks