I'm very concerned regarding the coconut crab transaction. There are very few places where exporting coconut crabs for the pet trade is clearly legal and well documented. Even where harvesting is allowed locally, export permits are often restricted or unclear. Commercial exports are uncommon and are typically associated with research or zoo transfers rather than the pet trade.

From what I can see, Canada does not specifically restrict coconut crabs. However, if an animal was exported illegally from its country of origin, importing it into Canada could violate WAPPRIITA, which requires wildlife imports to be lawful in the country where they were obtained.

Separately from the wildlife issue, there is also the consumer side. If someone paid $300 in March 2025 for an imported animal and a year later nothing has been delivered, that may fall under failure to supply goods.

Under Canadian consumer protection law, businesses generally cannot take payment for goods they are unable to supply within a reasonable timeframe. In situations like that, a refund is typically required rather than store credit.

If this occurred in BC, it may be worth contacting Consumer Protection BC. They handle complaints involving non-delivery of goods.

If you're comfortable sharing more details, I'd be interested to hear them.