Widespread concern over the lack of management of shark fisheries and declining shark populations led to the adoption and endorsement of the UN FAO International Plan of Action for the Conservation and Management of Sharks (IPOA–Sharks) in 1999. This is aimed at ensuring the conservation and management of sharks and their long-term sustainable use, with particular emphasis on improving species-specific catch and landings data collection, and the monitoring and management of shark fisheries.  The IPOA–Sharks recommends, inter alia, that all States contributing to fishing mortality on an elasmobranch species or stock should participate in its management, and should develop a National Shark Plan by 2001. Progress in most States remains disappointing, with approximately 10% of shark fishing States having prepared National Plans of Action under the IPOA-Sharks by end 2004.

The IUCN SSG is already actively involved in assisting States with the implementation of the IPOA–Sharks. Its members have contributed significantly to the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation Technical Manual for Elasmobranch Fisheries Management Techniques (the SSG has now negotiated with FAO for its translation and publication in three languages in 2005), advised many States and regional bodies on the development of shark fisheries monitoring and management initiatives (including the drafting of National Shark Plans), participated in collaborative projects that include fisheries monitoring and management training elements, and have held a regional training workshop for fisheries managers.