Another point was previously mentioned. They just don't have the transportation infrastructure to do it on a Global scale. Within the local county, province, or state - probably, but perishable live reptiles in any condition as pets, I don't think so. Good enough shape for soup is all.
The reason they like turtles for the table so much, is due to the turtle's shelf life unrefrigerated. They're practically like a crate of potatoes (once you purge the gut). It is a very convenient form of protein.
jsc
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"As hard as I've tried, just can't NOT do this"
John Crickmer

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