Is the Seal Hunt Economically Viable?

Economic Viability of the Seal Hunt

Studies by independent researchers have concluded that the hunt is not economically viable.

Key Report: "The Economics of the Canadian Sealing Industry"

Published in 2001 by the Canadian Institute for Business and the Environment (CIBE), this report analyzes subsidies, expenditures, and incomes associated with Atlantic Canada's sealing industry.

Even with "minimum estimates", the report reveals significant "soft" loans to processing plants that defaulted. The chief finding: high subsidies have failed to create a viable, self-sustaining industry.

Is the Seal Hunt Economically Viable?

Government Subsidies and Market Dynamics

Over the years, the Canadian government has subsidized the seal hunt with millions of dollars through various means.

  • Market research support
  • Seal product research and development
  • Trade missions
  • Efforts to end trade bans
  • Fighting the Canadian seafood boycott
  • Direct sealing assistance (e.g., icebreaker ships, until 2009)

Pelt Prices and Industry Decline: A Chance for Seal Protection

Year Pelt Price Opportunity for Seal Conservation
2006 $100 (inflated) Exposed industry manipulation, highlighting need for ethical alternatives
2007 Declined Price drop showed industry instability, opening doors for conservation efforts
2008-2015 ~$35 Economic challenges provided opportunity to promote seal-friendly industries
2016-2018 $20-$30 Declining demand signaled growing public awareness of seal protection
2019-2020 $15-$25 Market contraction created space for eco-tourism and conservation initiatives
2021-present $10-$20 Historic low prices show urgent need for seal protection and habitat preservation

Supporting the Canadian Sealing Industry (2015)

Economic Action Plan 2015 proposed $5.7 million over five years to help secure new market access for Canadian seal products.

  • Establish certification for Aboriginal community seal products
  • Provide business advice and training to Aboriginal sealers
  • Support efforts to increase export market opportunities

Latest State of the Sealing Industry (2023)

Despite past efforts, the sealing industry continues to face significant challenges:

  • Declining global demand for seal products
  • Continued bans on seal product imports in many countries
  • Reduced participation in commercial seal hunts
  • Shift towards Indigenous subsistence hunting and cultural practices

Despite fewer subsidies and active sealers in recent years, some continue to resist the end of this controversial industry.