In Japan, whaling began in as early as the 12th century. However, modern Japanese whaling only started in the 1890s. This is when they started to join the modern whaling industry along with many other countries. The whaling industry thrived up until the 20th century when the International Whaling Commission (IWC) gave participating countries a moratorium that took effect in 1986.

Although the ruling stopped Japan from whaling, there was still a provision in the agreement that allowed whaling for the purpose of research. The research was conducted by the Institute of Cetacean Research and afterwards, the meat of the whale would be sold to shops and restaurants. This provision became an excuse for many Japanese fishers to continue whaling. Therefore, the International Court of Justice ruled that the Japanese whaling program was not done for scientific purposes and has to be stopped. Pro-whaling proponents still maintain that it is just a matter of cultural differences. That is why they insist on pursuing the industry.

In fact, the Japanese whaling industry still continues. They refuse to abandon their hunts and have spent millions of dollars for fuel and equipment. They have even attempted to improve the situation by advertising the meat as a nutritious food that allows physical strength enhancement and fatigue reduction.

Currently, there are over 5,000 tons of unsold whale meat that sits in freezers. This means that there will be more losses to the industry. The younger generation of Japanese has refused to eat whale meat. The whaling institute suggests that the meat is a source of balenine, which helps to increase strength. They have also advertised the meat to the defense forces of Japan. They have even distributed brochures that comprise yummy recipes of whale related dishes such as sashimi.

Still, with whaling being banned along with the lack of demand for whale meat, the future of the industry is currently looking bleak.