Monitor lizards are traded globally and are the most common type of lizard to be exported from Southeast Asia, with 8.1 million exported between 1998 and 2007.[30] The Asian water monitor is one of the most exploited varanids; its skin is used for fashion accessories such as shoes, belts and handbags which are shipped globally, with as many as 1.5 million skins traded annually.[2] Other uses include a perceived remedy for skin ailments and eczema,[31] novelty food in Indonesia,[32] and a perceived aphrodisiac,[33] and as pets.[6]