Iceland’s largest whaling company, Hvalur hf., has announced the cancellation of its 2025 whaling season, marking the second consecutive year without a hunt.
The decision stems from unfavorable market conditions, particularly declining demand and prices in Japan, the primary export destination for Icelandic whale meat. CEO Kristján Loftsson stated that the current economic situation renders whaling operations unjustifiable, with the company opting to remain docked and reassess the situation next year.
This development has been welcomed by environmental and animal welfare groups, who view it as a potential turning point in the global effort to end commercial whaling. Despite the cancellation, concerns remain as other companies, such as Tjaldtangi ehf., still hold permits for minke whale hunting.
Advocates urge for a comprehensive ban on all forms of commercial whaling to ensure the protection of whale populations.
Source: EuroWeekly
