I have no issue with “wet markets” per se. I love frequenting these markets when I travel in Asia or anywhere large public food markets exist.

However, given that SARS and COVID both emerged from these markets, poor health regulation by the Chinese government demonstrates that the health risk they present is substantial and extends far beyond China’s borders.

The risk posed by the raising and slaughter of exotic, non-domesticated animals is too great. As China cannot adequately regulate them and protect the public, then the sale and slaughter of wild and exotic animals in public markets must be banned and the market for exotic animal meats and products should be suppressed.