U.S. port privileges denied to fishing vessels of 17 nations as a result of negative certification under the High Seas Driftnet Fishing Moratorium Protection Act.
NOAA Fisheries has denied U.S. port privileges to certain fishing vessels from 17 nations, starting October 10, 2024. This action targets vessels involved in illegal, unreported, unregulated (IUU) fishing or harmful practices affecting protected marine life. Affected vessels include those flagged by China, Russia, Mexico, and several other nations operating in international waters.
Port services, such as refueling and resupplying, are prohibited, except in cases involving crew safety or distress. These denials result from negative certifications issued under the High Seas Driftnet Fishing Moratorium Protection Act, which identifies nations failing to regulate IUU fishing or bycatch effectively. After a 2-year consultation period, countries failing to improve their fisheries management face these port restrictions. NOAA is open to lifting denials once nations take corrective actions, promoting sustainable fishing practices.