Brussels: The European Union on Friday proposed making all eel species, including the Japanese eel, subject to regulation under an international treaty to protect endangered species, while Japan opposes the move.

According to Philippines News Agency, the EU, along with the Dominican Republic, Panama, and Honduras, submitted the proposal to the secretariat of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, or CITES. The proposal aims to regulate fry, full-grown eels, and processed eel products of all 18 species.

CITES, also known as the Washington Convention, categorizes animals and plants requiring protection into annexes on three levels based on the degree of regulation needed. The EU and its partners are advocating for all eel species to be included at the second level.

The proposal is set to be discussed at the upcoming conference of the parties to the pact, which will take place in Uzbekistan from November to December. If approved, exporters would be required to issue permits based on scientific assessments, thereby enforcing stricter trade controls on eels and processed products.

Japan is notably opposed to this proposal, as eels are considered a prized food in the country. A Fisheries Agency official has stated, "There is no risk of eels becoming extinct due to international trade."

On Friday, Agriculture Minister Shinjiro Koizumi expressed deep regret over the situation and emphasized that Japan will take every possible measure to prevent the adoption of the proposal. The country plans to collaborate with China and South Korea in its efforts.