Sri Lanka Meets US Marine Mammal Protection Standards for Seafood Exports
Sri Lanka has successfully fulfilled the strict requirements imposed under the United States’ Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) for exporting fish and fish-related products to the American market.
As a result, restrictions on the export of Sri Lanka’s Blue Swimming Crab to the United States have now been lifted, according to the Ministry of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), which operates under the US Department of Commerce, has officially recognized that Sri Lanka’s crab harvesting methods and related regulations are “comparable in effectiveness” to US standards.
Previously, these exports were affected following a US court ruling issued in November 2025. However, after reviewing scientific data and supporting evidence submitted by the Department of Fisheries, National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA) and other stakeholders, NOAA reconsidered its decision and granted approval.
Key highlights of the approval include:
- Export Authorization Confirmed
Sri Lanka has received the required “Comparability Finding” certification needed to export fish products to the United States. - Validity Period
The official approval will remain valid until December 31, 2029, allowing uninterrupted crab exports during that period. - Environmentally Responsible Fishing Practices
Sri Lanka’s fishing methods, which prevent harm to marine mammals such as dolphins and whales during crab harvesting, have received international recognition.
The Ministry further stated that this achievement will strengthen the livelihoods of the fishing community and contribute significantly to earning foreign exchange for the country.
