Mexico has implemented new national regulations prohibiting the capture and retention of five threatened shark species in Atlantic waters, marking a significant step forward for marine conservation. The ban covers bigeye thresher sharks, silky sharks, critically endangered oceanic whitetip sharks, endangered shortfin mako sharks, and most hammerhead species.

The new rules apply to longline fishing operations throughout waters managed by the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT), including the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean Sea. Fisheries are now strictly forbidden from keeping these sharks on board, storing, transferring, landing, or selling them—whether whole or in parts—even when caught accidentally as bycatch.

While shark conservationists applaud the protections, many emphasize they should have come much sooner. The regulations are based on ICCAT recommendations issued between 2009 and 2021, meaning Mexico is finally catching up on commitments made over a decade ago. Although ICCAT recommendations are legally binding for member nations, each country must incorporate them into domestic law to ensure local enforcement.

Mexico’s Atlantic and Pacific fisheries capture substantial numbers of various shark species, making these protections crucial for recovery of severely depleted populations. The government stated the measure demonstrates Mexico’s commitment to “responsible, sustainable fishing practices that respect protected species” while fulfilling international obligations. This regulatory update represents a critical win for ocean biodiversity, as these apex predators play essential roles in maintaining healthy marine ecosystems.