U.S. Greenlights Dolphin-Friendly Tuna from Seven Nations
Published Date: 4/15/2026
Notice
Summary
The U.S. is giving a thumbs-up to Colombia, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Mexico, Peru, and Spain to keep importing their yellowfin tuna caught in the eastern tropical Pacific Ocean for another year (April 1, 2026–March 31, 2027). This means these countries are playing by the rules to protect dolphins while fishing, so their tuna products can keep swimming into U.S. markets without a hitch. Fish lovers and importers can relax knowing the seafood stays sustainable and legal!
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Imports Could Stop If Nations Fail Rules
NMFS can terminate an affirmative finding if a nation no longer meets the requirements of 50 CFR 216.24(f) or consistently fails to enforce violations, which would stop imports of yellowfin tuna from that nation. Termination decisions are made in consultation with the Secretary of State and could affect exports to the United States.
U.S. OKs Yellowfin Tuna Imports
The National Marine Fisheries Service renewed affirmative findings so yellowfin tuna and yellowfin tuna products from Colombia, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Mexico, Peru, and Spain may be imported into the United States from April 1, 2026 through March 31, 2027. NMFS made the renewals because those nations met requirements under the Marine Mammal Protection Act and the Agreement on the International Dolphin Conservation Program.
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