In many countries souvenirs made from sea turtle shells and skins are readily available for tourists to buy. ‘Tortoise shell’ or ‘Bekko’ items are traditional handicrafts and highly prized in Japan. Complete sea turtle shells and stuffed sea turtles are commonly found on market stalls and in shops in many popular tourist destinations.

The possession or purchase of products made from sea turtle parts is illegal in countries that are signatories to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). All sea turtle species are listed under the convention. Australia became a signatory to CITES in 1976 and joins around 150 other countries that have signed CITES. Persons attempting to bring products made from sea turtle parts into Australia will face heavy penalties when caught.