MADRID (AFP) ― Spain’s biggest hotel chain Melia Hotels International said Monday it has removed shark fin from the menu of all of its restaurants around the world, joining a growing global campaign against the popular delicacy in Asia.

“With the removal of shark fin as an ingredient, Melia contributes to the protection of the important role sharks have in maintaining balance in marine ecosystems,” the company said in a statement.

“As predators, sharks are a key species in the food chain and also indicators of the health of our oceans. They eliminate the weakest prey, maintain balance with competitors, and guarantee the diversity of species,” it added.

Melia, which runs more than 350 hotels in 40 countries, making it one of the world‘s largest hotel companies, said the ban on shark fins would also apply to all events held in its facilities.