During the World Travel & Tourism in China, Kathleen Matthews, Marriott International's Executive Vice President of Global Communications & Public Affairs, applauded Yao Ming, former basketball star and humanitarian for his courageous stand to protect sharks.

Effective July 1, 2014, Marriott will implement a complete ban on the sale of shark fin.

In 2012, the company removed shark fin from its menus, offering high-end sustainable dining alternatives by its award-winning culinary team.  This resulted in an 80 percent reduction in consumption.
 
Marriott is committed to a pathway to source more sustainable seafood for its restaurants worldwide.

Photo: Kathleen Matthews & Yao Ming