1. The international conference on trade in endangered species, held at Uzbekistan's CITES, will discuss whether all species of eel should be subject to international trade restrictions, with a specific focus on the Japanese eel.

2. Japan is opposed to this proposal and has planned to coordinate with China and South Korea, which also oppose the move, to seek support from other nations. However, communications with Chinese officials have been difficult.

3. A vote on the proposal is expected, and for it to pass, a two-thirds majority is required as CITES has more than 180 member countries. Japanese representatives are actively meeting with representatives from other countries to encourage opposition to the proposal to prevent potential disruptions in eel imports and soaring eel prices domestically.