In 2000, it plans to undertake a pilot project that would see the marketing of seal pelts, oil and meat to Chinese interests. Nunavut is also actively developing its own northern market for both local clients and tourists. By promoting fur products as attractive and functional and linked to the traditional hunting culture, it hopes to create new local economic opportunities. As a result of the government-wide review of priorities and activities in 1994, DFO is no longer involved in product support or promotion activities. Canada has formally asked what action the U.S. government is contemplating to bring the MMPA into conformity with international obligations.
Canadian officials continue to seek a response.
Canada will continue to pursue this issue and is considering all options, including recourse to dispute settlement. In the short term, Canada has begun discussions with U.S. authorities to facilitate temporary, non-commercial transfer across the border of items from Aboriginal communities for cultural or educational purposes, as allowed by the MMPA under limited circumstances. Due to high inventory of hooded seal pelts from previous years, there was no directed harvest for hooded seals. This drop probably reflects poor markets. In 1999, there was virtually no market for seal meat.