What does Japan say about whaling?

Japan defends its whaling practices by asserting that they are a part of its cultural heritage and tradition. The country has conducted whaling under the guise of scientific research, despite international criticism and a ban on commercial whaling by the International Whaling Commission (IWC). Japan argues that whaling is necessary for maintaining its maritime culture and has resumed commercial whaling since 2019, citing a desire for sustainable use of marine resources. This stance has led to significant tensions with environmental groups and other nations advocating for whale conservation.