A recent study by the us-based Wildlife Conservation Society reveals that the quantity of shark fins in Asian markets could be double the previous estimates. The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation, which monitors and manages the world's fish populations, says that lack of accurate data has resulted in conservation concerns for several species of sharks.

Accurate reporting of trade data is important for the conservation of sharks as well as other commercially valuable species. Shark fin is considered a major delicacy in Asian cuisine. Shelley Clarke, lead author of the recently published book Trade in Dried Asian Sea Food, feels that improved monitoring is needed at key seafood trading centres like Hong Kong in order to properly regulate fishing levels.

Recent research by Clarke indicates discrepancies in the reported numbers of shark fins that are traded in by Hong Kong and its partners. It has also been found that European nations are increasingly taking part in the business. Their imports from Hong Kong