Japan resumes sale of controversial fin whale meat after decades

Japan recently resumed the hunting of fin whales for the first time in nearly 50 years, aligning with its broader expansion of commercial whaling along its coast. This development follows Japan's withdrawal from the International Whaling Commission in 2019, which allowed the country to operate within its exclusive economic zone and set its own hunting quotas. The controversy surrounding whaling has long plagued Japan, especially after the IWC designated fin whales as a protected species due to overhunting in 1976. A recent auction in Sapporo saw fin whale meat fetching over $1,300 per kilogram, indicating a potential revitalization in demand. However, experts express skepticism regarding genuine consumer interest in whale meat, which has become less familiar and affordable to the Japanese populace over the decades. Despite the government's intent to promote whale killing for economic viability, there is mounting pressure from conservationists like Nanami Kurasawa, who warn against hunting species that have previously faced extinction and urge for comprehensive research into whale populations. The Japanese government aims to significantly increase whale meat production, striving for about 5,000 tons to sustain the dwindling industry. Additionally, while whale meat remains a delicacy in certain coastal regions, it is significantly pricier than conventional meats, restricting its appeal in larger urban areas like Tokyo. The sustainability of Japan's whaling practices seems uncertain without substantial government support and without appealing to a broader market demand for whale products.