Source: Vietnam Public Procurement Newspaper

HANOI, November 2025 – The United States Court of International Trade (CIT) has officially delayed the enforcement of a ban on blue crab imports from Vietnam, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Sri Lanka. The ban, which was set to take effect on January 1, 2026, will remain suspended while the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reassesses each country’s compliance with marine mammal protection standards.

The decision comes after a lawsuit filed by the National Fisheries Institute (NFI), the National Restaurant Association (NRA), and several U.S. seafood companies. They claimed that NOAA had violated administrative procedures under the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) by refusing to recognize “comparability findings” for 240 fisheries across 46 countries, including Vietnam’s blue crab fishery (Fishery ID 2988).

Details of the Settlement and Review Process

Following negotiations, the U.S. Department of Justice and the plaintiffs reached a settlement, approved by the court on October 31, 2025. Under the agreement, blue crab imports from the four Asian countries will continue while NOAA’s National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) reviews updated information.

60 Days for Additional Submissions

Each country will have at least 60 days to provide scientific and management data proving compliance with U.S. marine protection standards. The information required includes:

• Bycatch statistics of marine mammals;
• Stranding records;
• Monitoring and conservation programs;
• Evidence of enforcement and financial resources for risk mitigation.

Opportunity and Challenge for Vietnam’s Seafood Industry

Source: VnBusiness

The temporary suspension offers short-term relief for Vietnam’s exporters, allowing continued access to the U.S. seafood market. However, experts warn that the next 60 days will be decisive. The quality and transparency of Vietnam’s data will determine whether its blue crab fishery can retain “comparability” status and maintain sustainable export growth.

Strengthening Compliance for Long-Term Market Access

Vietnam’s fisheries authorities and seafood enterprises are urged to strengthen coordination, enhance monitoring systems, and document conservation efforts—especially for species like the Irrawaddy dolphin. Ensuring data accuracy and timely submission will be key to preserving blue crab imports to the United States.

Outlook: Maintaining Access to the U.S. Market

The CIT has dismissed the case without prejudice, meaning it may be reopened if NOAA’s reassessment process encounters further disputes. For now, blue crab imports from Vietnam and other affected countries can continue.

This delay represents both a relief and a reminder—Vietnam’s seafood industry must act swiftly to meet international sustainability standards and secure long-term export stability in one of its most valuable markets.

Source: Vnexpress

11/11/2025