NOAA Fisheries announced a proposed rule for the first phase of a U.S. seafood traceability program. This first phase includes collection and retention of data on certain fish and fish products imported into the U.S. that are particularly vulnerable to IUU fishing and seafood fraud. All information and details can be accessed through the web-portal at www.iuufishing.noaa.gov. Establishing a traceability program is a key first step to ensure the products of these illicit activities are prevented from entering U.S. commerce.
Designed to build upon existing resources and processes, this proposed rule aims to maximize the effectiveness and efficiency, while minimizing impacts on the fishing and seafood trade community. To achieve these objectives, detailed comments are encouraged from the fishing and seafood industries, conservation community, and other stakeholders engaged with sustainable seafood.
Two public webinar-conference calls have been scheduled in February and an in-person meeting will be conducted at the Seafood Expo in Boston, Mass., on March 7. Details will be posted on the web-portal www.iuufishing.noaa.gov.