An ocean scientist and conservationist says a shark diving industry in Saipan could see the Northern Marianas reap millions of dollars in economic benefits. According to Sustainable Shark Diving Founder Rick MacPherson, he has seen the benefits of shark eco-tourism in both Palau and Fiji, which have an 18 million and 42 US million dollar industry respectively.

Shark diving, when done safely and sustainably, has become increasingly popular and lucrative and MacPherson is encouraging other nations to get on board. "The steps for a new destination considering this just like Saipan, is the recognition of the role that healthy sharks play to the environment, to food security, to coral reef health, that there is a sustainable industry that is possible through shark dive tourism in Saipan."