Why is Japan adding fin whales to its commercial whaling list?

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Japan's Rationale for Including Fin Whales in Commercial Whaling

Japan is adding fin whales to its list of commercial whaling species based on the government's view that whales represent important food resources that should be sustainably utilised. This decision also aligns with the stated importance of inheriting traditional food cultures within Japan. Commercial whaling activities resumed in 2019 following Japan's withdrawal from the International Whaling Commission (IWC).
Whales as Sustainable Food Resources

The Japanese government considers whales to be significant food resources. The policy to include fin whales in commercial catches is framed around the principle of sustainable utilisation, which the government asserts should be guided by scientific evidence. This approach underpins the expansion of the whaling programme to encompass larger whale species.
Preserving Traditional Food Cultures

A key justification provided for the inclusion of fin whales is the importance of preserving and inheriting traditional food cultures in Japan. The government views whaling as a practice linked to these cultural traditions, and the expansion of the species targeted for commercial hunting is seen as a way to maintain this heritage.
Expansion from Current Species

Currently, Japan's commercial whaling is limited to three species: minke whales, Bryde’s whales, and sei whales. Last year, the total catch for these species amounted to 294 individuals. The addition of fin whales signifies an expansion of the scope of commercial whaling operations beyond these existing targets.
Resumption of Commercial Whaling

Japan's resumption of commercial whaling in its territorial waters and exclusive economic zones commenced in 2019. This move followed the nation's withdrawal from the International Whaling Commission (IWC), an international body responsible for the regulation of commercial whaling activities.

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Why is Japan adding fin whales to its commercial whaling list?

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