The National Institute for Environmental Studies announced on July 31, 2025, interdisciplinary research results indicating potential smuggling of Purple Hermit Crabs, designated as national natural monuments, from Japan to Taiwan. The research suggests that high demand and market value in Taiwan, combined with insufficient legal regulations, may be driving smuggling operations.
The research conducted analysis from three perspectives - economic, ecological, and legal systems - revealing that demand and price increases in Taiwan's online markets, low density of wild populations in Taiwan, and insufficient regulatory frameworks have combined to increase illegal trade. Actual cases occurred in 2023 and 2025, including attempted smuggling by Chinese nationals from Okinawa and Amami Oshima, and successful smuggling arrests of Taiwanese nationals from Miyako Island.
The research results are published in the academic journal "People and Nature," recommending strengthened cooperation between authorities of both countries and enhanced monitoring and enforcement. This research is notable for highlighting the importance of biodiversity conservation and wildlife smuggling countermeasures.