Air China Cargo has become the first mainland Chinese carrier to ban the transportation of shark fin as cargo as says it wants to play a role in a “more sustainable world”.
More than 30 airlines have now joined the ban globally as the pressure has been growing on them to impose the ban on the trade.
Shark fin soup is a popular traditional Chinese dish often served at special occasions such as weddings and banquets, or as a luxury item in Chinese culture.
The freight arm of Air China did not specify when the policy would take effect but made this announcement on its website: “Air China Cargo has a long standing commitment to playing our role in a more sustainable world. We were one of the first airlines in China to raise the awareness of the unsustainability of the global shark trade.
“We understand the community’s desire to promote responsible and sustainable marine sourcing practices, and this remains important to Air China Cargo’s overall sustainable development goals.
“Therefore, on the issue of shark fin, we reiterate our “No Shark Fin” carriage policy.”
Last year, low cost Hong Kong-based carrier HK Express became the first local airlines to implement a ban, and was joined in recent months by Cathay Pacific and Dragonair.
