Fin City

China Has Banned Shark-Fin Soup at State Banquets

Bad news for those looking to get their endangered, cartilaginous, gloopy soup fix on with Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao and his entourage anytime in the near future: State-owned news agency Xinhua reports a moratorium on serving shark-fin soup at official banquets will take effect some time during the next three years. The sale of fins for home or restaurant cooking will still be legal, so while conservationists are pleased with the announcement, they’re not altogether satisfied. Related: If you’re wondering what kinds of crazy spreads are laid out at Chinese state banquets, have 78 minutes to kill, and are okay with state-owned TV, this three-part documentary series is just the thing for you. [Xinhua]

China Has Banned Shark-Fin Soup at State Banquets