Part 4: Corruption in marine wildlife trafficking

Illicit proceeds from the marine trade can be significant, attracting organised crime groups and criminals operating in legal companies and industries.

• The international trade in marine ornamental fishes is estimated to be worth over USD 1.5 billion.
• Beluga sturgeon can produce 150 kg of eggs (caviar) valued at USD 1,865 per kg.
• Hawksbill turtles can sell for more than USD 1,000 each.
• The glass eel trade is estimated to be worth billions of euros per year.
• The most highly valued species of dried sea cucumbers can fetch around USD 3,000 per kg in Chinese markets.
• Dried seahorses sell for anything from USD 600 to USD 3,000 per kg in Asian markets.
• The estimated value of 20,000 totoaba swim bladders seized in China in 2019 exceeded USD 110 million.