Polar bear trade ban too close to call

Negotiators are split on the plan, with those in favour saying it is crucial for the survival of the species. Canada’s Inuit say the trade should continue as it is critical to their economic survival.
 
And some campaign groups are also opposing it, saying the ban isn’t scientifically justified. There are about 25,000 polar bears left in the world with an estimated 16,000 living in the Canadian Arctic. Canada is the only country that permits the export of polar bear parts.
 
Each year around 600 polar bears are killed there, mainly by native hunters. According to Inuit representatives, the pelts from around 300 bears are sold for rugs. Other parts including fangs and paws are also exported.
 
The Inuit say they get an average of $4,850 per pelt. They argue that this is a critical economic resource for a people that don’t have much else.