The article discusses the sea turtle trade in Vietnam. It states that prior to April 22, 2002, their capture was legal in the country. Their shells were mostly sold to Europe, North America and Japan. With the development of plastic, however, demand reportedly declined except for luxury items. A study was therefore conducted to determine the extent of the trade as of 2008. Researchers visited work shops, stores and talked to those involved in the trade. They found that though illegal, a lively and profitable trade in turtle shell products still thrives.