Dinosaurs for sale: Is the global fossil market harming science? | Investigation
Asia’s Growing Role in the Fossil Trade Captured in Upcoming “101 East” Special
A two-part special of 101 East will examine Asia’s involvement in the burgeoning multimillion-dollar dinosaur fossil trade, which has seen a surge in interest from affluent collectors throughout the region.
The demand for dinosaur fossils has escalated globally, highlighted by the sale of a Stegosaurus skeleton at a New York auction for a record $44.6 million in 2024. This trend has led fossil hunters to reap significant profits, while many Asian collectors view these fossils as tools for educating future generations about history and science.
Despite the appeal of fossil collecting, some academics express concerns about the ethics of the commercial fossil trade, arguing that it poses risks to scientific integrity and preservation.
101 East delves into the complexities of this lucrative trade, exploring both its appeal and the controversies surrounding it.
The special is set to air on February 7, 2026.
