The Japanese market for crocodile, ostrich, elephant, reptile and other exotic skins and leathers could represent more than 50 % of the total world production. When the importation of finished leather goods produced outside of Japan is included it could reach 70% of the total production. Japan also represents the majority of the market in other fields including various types of fishery products.

Therefore, it is extremely important for all of us engaged in the use of wildlife regardless of whether they are elephants, whales, crocodiles, sharks, snakes or ostriches, to educate the Japanese market about "sustainable use". It equally important to explain to that market the dangers of believing the protectionist ideology of extreme groups.

I believe educating the Japanese consumer is an important mission for IWMC. It is one that will always receive a warm acceptance by Japanese consumers.

While IWMC's credibility is strong among Japanese industries as well as Japanese Government officials, IWMC is little known to Japanese consumers. Placement of stories about the activities of IWMC in the Japanese media will prove quite useful in bringing IWMC to the attention of Japanese public. The proper involvement with Japanese media would be one of the important options for IWMC to reach this target audience in the future.