NOAA Seeks Comments on Fish Import Paperwork Under Driftnet Moratorium Act
Published Date: 3/17/2025
Notice
Summary
NOAA is asking for public feedback on a paperwork process that helps control the import of certain fish products caught using banned fishing nets. This affects businesses that trade fish and seafood, ensuring they follow rules to protect the ocean and marine life. Comments are open until May 16, 2025, with no new costs expected, just a smooth continuation of current rules.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Import prohibition for fisheries lacking MMPA comparability
Under the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) comparability process, fish and fish products from a foreign fishery without a comparability finding are prohibited from entry into U.S. commerce; exporters and importers must provide documentation showing admissibility for other products from that nation. NOAA references the comparability procedure (RIN 0648-AY15) and ties this certification requirement to Customs enforcement at import.
Ongoing Certification paperwork for seafood trade
If you import or export fish or seafood, shipments that are subject to U.S. trade restrictions must be accompanied by a Certification of Admissibility. NOAA estimates 100 respondents will file 50 responses each year (5,000 filings), at 10 minutes per response for a total annual burden of 833.33 hours and an estimated annual cost to the public of $0; submissions are made electronically in the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) (paper allowed at ports).
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