Doha, Qatar - China, Japan and Russia have helped defeat a proposal at United Nations wildlife trade meeting that would have boosted conservation efforts for sharks.
The non-binding measure called for increased transparency in the shark trade and more research into the threat posed to sharks by illegal fishing.
It had been expected to pass easily, but the United States, the European Union and other supporters couldn't muster the two-thirds majority needed in Tuesday's vote.
Critics expressed concern the measure would hurt poor nations and could be handled by regional bodies instead.
The vote could be a bad omen for a two-week meeting that will include much more controversial marine proposals, including banning the export of Atlantic bluefin tuna, which is popular with sushi lovers. - Sapa-AP