International regulations on eel trading, a topic of much discussion, have officially been rejected, marking a surprising development in global environmental policy. This decision comes at a time when multiple countries are grappling with the ecological impact of eel fishing and distribution. The rejection could potentially worsen the overfishing and endangerment of several species. It's unclear what the next steps will be for pro-conservation groups and policy makers.

In Japan, eels are an essential part of cuisine and cultural traditions especially during the midsummer Day of the Ox. However, domestic eels are threatened due to overfishing. The issue of whether to impose international restrictions on eel trade is highly contested as it affects not just the economy, but also Japan's biodiversity and cultural heritage.

Unlike in Japan, eels are less integral to the diet in the US or EU. However, conservation efforts are similarly seen from an ecological perspective; managing fishing habits, especially of endangered species, is a global necessity. They typically support such trade restrictions to protect biodiversity, while also focusing on local economy and jobs.