The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) has proposed updates to the seafood import provisions of the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA). While the proposal does not immediately change import requirements, it clarifies how import prohibitions would be implemented if a foreign fishery fails to meet U.S. marine mammal protection standards.
What’s Changing?
The proposed rule would:
- Make import prohibitions effective 30 days after NMFS publishes notice that a fishery has been denied a comparability finding.
- Keep the prohibition in place until the fishery regains compliance.
- Clarify administrative procedures to improve consistency and transparency in the seafood import program.
How Do NOAA’s Proposed Seafood Import Changes Affect Importers?
Seafood imported into the United States must come from fisheries that meet marine mammal protection standards comparable to those required of U.S. fisheries. If a fishery loses its comparability finding, seafood harvested from that fishery would no longer be eligible for import into the United States.
While no immediate action is required, seafood importers should continue monitoring the compliance status of their suppliers and be prepared to adjust sourcing if future NMFS determinations affect key fisheries.
When Could the Changes Take Effect?
The proposal is currently open for public comment through September 28, 2026. After reviewing comments, NMFS may issue a final rule.
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