International

The Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, Rajiv Ranjan Singh, clarified that the United States has not imposed a blanket ban on shrimp imports from India, including Kerala. The restrictions are specifically targeted at wild-caught shrimp, primarily to address concerns related to sea turtle conservation.

In a written response to the Lok Sabha, the Minister stated that while wild-caught shrimp exports to the US face limitations, shipments to other countries remain unaffected. To address these concerns, the Indian government, through the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) and the Department of Commerce, has actively engaged with US authorities.

The Department of Commerce, in collaboration with MPEDA, has worked closely with the US Department of State and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to resolve the issue. Several versions of the Turtle Excluder Device (TED), developed by the ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Technology (CIFT), have been tested to meet conservation requirements.

To promote the adoption of TEDs, MPEDA has organized state-level workshops and conducted extensive awareness campaigns among boat owners and fishers at major harbours and landing centres across the country.

The Minister highlighted that the matter has been raised through various bilateral forums, including the India-US Trade Policy Forum (TPF) held in New Delhi in January 2024 and its inter-sessional meeting in September 2024. These interventions aim to find a resolution while ensuring compliance with environmental concerns.

Background

The US imposed restrictions on wild-caught shrimp imports from India in 2019, citing the entanglement of protected sea turtles in fishing nets. While the ban remains in effect, Indian authorities continue to work towards addressing these environmental concerns while preserving the export potential of the shrimp industry.

Rolex, through its Perpetual Planet Initiative, continues to champion environmental conservation by recognizing trailblazers who address critical global challenges. This year, Colombian marine biologist and conservationist Fernando Trujillo has been named the 2024 Rolex National Geographic Explorer of the Year for his pioneering work in protecting Amazon River dolphins and addressing ecological threats in the region.

Trujillo has spent over 30 years studying these freshwater dolphins, focusing on their migratory patterns and mercury contamination in their diets, which reflect the health of the Amazon ecosystem. His efforts have led to significant environmental policies, including conservation management plans for river dolphins and international agreements involving six South American countries.

Trujillo’s work also inspires local communities and future generations. The indigenous Tikuna tribe, who nicknamed him “Omacha” after a mythical dolphin-human creature, honors his dedication to protecting their habitat. Through his nonprofit, Fundación Omacha, he develops strategies for sustainable conservation, blending ecological preservation with community welfare.

Rolex’s partnership with the National Geographic Society underscores its commitment to safeguarding the planet’s life-support systems. The Perpetual Planet Initiative supports explorers like Trujillo through programs that provide funding, advanced technology, and global platforms to amplify their impact on the environment.

Source: MyNews

In a controversial announcement on 25 November, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump proposed significant tariff increases on goods from Canada, Mexico, and China, a move expected to impact a substantial portion of U.S. seafood imports. Trump outlined the plan on his Truth Social platform, indicating a 25 percent tariff on all imports from Mexico and Canada and a 10 percent tariff on goods from China, in addition to existing tariffs.

“On 20 January, as one of my many first executive orders, I will sign all necessary documents to charge Mexico and Canada a 25 percent tariff on all products coming into the United States and its ridiculous open borders,” Trump stated. “This tariff will remain in effect until such time as drugs, in particular fentanyl, and all illegal aliens stop this invasion of our country!”

The U.S. relies heavily on seafood imports, with the trade deficit in the sector reaching USD 20.3 billion (EUR 19.3 billion) in 2023. Of the USD 25.3 billion (EUR 24.1 billion) in seafood imports, Canada accounted for USD 3.62 billion (EUR 3.45 billion), making it the largest source of seafood to the U.S.

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) data shows the U.S. imported USD 3.56 billion (EUR 3.39 billion) worth of edible seafood and USD 59.5 million (EUR 56.7 million) in non-edible seafood from Canada in 2023. These figures represent over 305 million kilograms of products.

Industry experts are expressing concerns over the potential financial burden on U.S. importers if the proposed tariffs are implemented. For instance, a 25 percent tariff on seafood imports from Canada alone would have significantly increased costs for importers, potentially leading to higher consumer prices and disruptions in the seafood supply chain.

The proposal has sparked debate among stakeholders in the seafood and trade sectors, as they await further details and policy actions following Trump’s inauguration in January.

Source: Seafoodsource

Photo source: NOAA Fisheries

In a groundbreaking step for sustainable fisheries management, NOAA Fisheries has developed and deployed a Multi-Function Trawl net capable of targeting multiple fish species at varying depths. This innovative tool integrates surveys for coastal pelagic species and Pacific hake, which were previously conducted using separate vessels and nets, saving both time and resources while improving data accuracy.

COLLABORATION AND DESIGN

The net, a product of collaboration between NOAA Fisheries, Ocean Gold Seafoods, and net manufacturer Swan Nets, represents a technological leap in fisheries science. It is designed to efficiently trawl species like sardines and anchovies near the surface at night, and Pacific hake in midwater during the day.

The net’s adaptability stems from several key features:

• Advanced Trawl Doors: Equipped with multiple attachment points, these doors allow seamless transitions between surface and midwater fishing, eliminating the need to switch gear.
• Optimized Mesh Design: Gradual changes in mesh size promote water flow, ensuring efficient capture of both target species and essential ecosystem organisms like lanternfish and squid.
• Sensors and Cameras: Real-time monitoring tools measure depth, temperature, and net performance, while underwater cameras capture images to study animal behavior and improve trawl accuracy.

SEA TRIALS AND PERFORMANCE

Trials began in late 2023 and continued through summer 2024 aboard NOAA’s research vessels, including the Bell M. Shimada and Reuben Lasker. These tests, conducted alongside industry experts, focused on evaluating the net’s efficiency and adaptability.

According to NOAA scientist Josiah Renfree, the Multi-Function Trawl net has delivered smooth operations and high-quality data. “The net’s performance during sardine and anchovy surveys has been impressive, and we’re refining our techniques to optimize results further,” Renfree said.

BENEFITS FOR SCIENCE AND INDUSTRY

The Multi-Function Trawl net supports NOAA’s mission to maintain long-term records of fish species abundance and ocean conditions. These datasets are crucial for understanding ecological changes, including those driven by climate change.

By integrating surveys, NOAA Fisheries can more effectively allocate resources and reduce costs. The innovation also enhances crew safety by eliminating the need to handle multiple trawl configurations.

Annie Yau, director of NOAA’s Fisheries Resources Division, highlighted the collaborative approach that led to these advancements: “Partnering with industry experts has enabled us to upgrade our survey tools with the latest technologies, bringing us closer to climate-ready fisheries management.”

IMPACT ON MANAGEMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY

This year’s trials compared the new net’s performance against traditional equipment used in Pacific hake surveys, with Canadian partners aboard the Sir John Franklin. These paired operations provided valuable insights into how the Multi-Function Trawl net affects biomass estimates.

“The continued improvements benefit not just scientists but also fishing communities and managers who rely on accurate data for sustainable practices,” said Greg Shaughnessy, Chief Operations Officer at Ocean Gold Seafoods, who played a key role in designing and testing the net.

The initiative was funded through NOAA Fisheries’ Inflation Reduction Act efforts, aimed at supporting climate-adaptive fisheries management.

LOOKING AHEAD

With plans to fully integrate the Multi-Function Trawl net into surveys by 2025, NOAA Fisheries is paving the way for smarter, more sustainable fishing practices. This innovation marks a significant milestone in balancing ecological stewardship with economic growth, ensuring the health of marine ecosystems for generations to come.

Source: NOAA Fisheries

Karachi: In a landmark development for Pakistan’s aquaculture industry, Arsala Seafood has successfully exported 21,600 kilograms of farm-raised shrimp from its Muzaffargarh facility to Vietnam. This marks the nation’s inaugural shipment of aquaculture-produced shrimp, paving the way for Pakistan’s emergence as a competitive player in the international shrimp trade.

This milestone underscores the growing potential of Pakistan’s aquaculture sector and reflects the government’s commitment to diversifying seafood exports while strengthening the country’s position in global markets.

The Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP), in partnership with various stakeholders, is actively working to integrate aquaculture products into the nation’s export portfolio, which has traditionally focused on wild-caught marine species. Recently, the United States has also approved the import of farm-raised shrimp from Pakistan, a significant breakthrough facilitated by TDAP in collaboration with the Trade Minister in Washington, D.C., and the Marine Fisheries Department (MFD).

This progress follows amendments to the Pakistan Fish Inspection and Quality Control Act of 1997, enabling the export of aquaculture-harvested shrimp. Additionally, the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and the Fisheries Development Board (FDB) have finalized the National Residue Control Plan (NRCP), which establishes stringent protocols and quality standards for shrimp exports.

With the NRCP now operational, Pakistan is poised to seek entry into the European Union market, further expanding its global footprint in the seafood sector. This milestone heralds a promising future for Pakistan’s aquaculture industry, signalling a shift toward sustainable practices and diversified economic opportunities.

On November 21, the United Nations will once again observe World Fisheries Day, a global reminder of the need for sustainable fishing practices, the elimination of illegal and unregulated fishing, and the protection of human rights for small-scale fishing communities. This year’s theme, “Let the waters teem with living creatures,” draws from the Book of Genesis, underscoring the commitment to replenishing ocean life.

Ahead of the event, Cardinal Michael Czerny, head of the Vatican’s Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development, released a message on November 12 that emphasized the vital role of fishing in human history, the challenges it faces today, and the Church’s call for responsible stewardship of the seas.

Fishing: A Historic Vocation and a Modern Challenge

Cardinal Czerny described fishing as one of humanity’s oldest professions, which has been profoundly altered in recent years due to what he termed “harm done to our common home.” He cautioned that modern fishing has drifted towards “predatory practices and technology” that often favor powerful interests over sustainable practices. This imbalance has taken a toll on the marine ecosystem and the communities that depend on it.

With over 58 million people employed in fisheries and aquaculture worldwide, the Cardinal urged awareness of the ethical responsibilities surrounding this sector. “The Church shares in the joys and hopes but also the sorrows and grief” of people whose livelihoods depend on the sea, he said, adding that fraternity must replace what he described as a “globalization of indifference” to environmental and human impacts.

A Call for Action Against Indifference

Cardinal Czerny referenced Pope Francis’ message at the inaugural World Meeting of Popular Movements, applauding groups who challenge passivity and cynicism, urging them to be leaders in positive change. The Prefect highlighted the need to harness technology in ways that respect human dignity, ensure labor security, and restore equilibrium between individuals, work, and nature. He called on policymakers to actively support small fishing communities and family-based fishing organizations, emphasizing that these groups play a crucial role in protecting marine resources for the common good.

Global Initiatives to Combat Illegal Fishing

Cardinal Czerny pointed to collaborative international efforts, like the One Ocean Summit held in 2022, where 14 nations pledged to fight illegal fishing and to manage fishery resources responsibly. Such initiatives mark important steps towards safeguarding the world’s oceans, he noted.

A Pontificate of Environmental Advocacy

Drawing on Pope Francis’ 2015 encyclical Laudato Si’, Cardinal Czerny reaffirmed the Pope’s call for environmental responsibility, stressing that creation’s gifts should be shared as “a collective good” belonging to all humanity. Pope Francis has long advocated for the protection of what he calls “our shared home,” urging all people to see the environment as a shared legacy and collective responsibility.

As World Fisheries Day approaches, the UN and the Vatican’s joint message is clear: sustainable, equitable fishing practices are not only necessary for the environment but are also a duty toward the communities who depend on these waters for their livelihood.

Source: Vatican News

Reef Relief, a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting and preserving marine ecosystems, is calling on professionals in the marine and environmental sciences to contribute to their Virtual Marine Science Classroom. The organization is looking for individuals with current experience or a background in marine sciences, environmental conservation, or related fields who are willing to share their knowledge with students.

The initiative invites professionals to participate in a 20-30 minute virtual interview, which will be featured in Unit 6 of the Virtual Marine Science Classroom. The goal is to provide students with an in-depth understanding of the various ways they can engage with and support ocean conservation efforts. This includes career opportunities in marine science, as well as hobbies, ecotourism, citizen science, and innovations that contribute to the health of marine environments.

Reef Relief believes that exposing students to a broad range of perspectives and career paths is essential in fostering a new generation of ocean advocates. By learning from professionals who work on the frontlines of marine conservation, students can explore how they can play a role in preserving our oceans, whether professionally or as part of a passion project.

The interviews are an opportunity for individuals to highlight their personal and professional experiences, discuss their work, and inspire others to get involved in ocean conservation. Participants will also help guide students toward various ways they can contribute to environmental efforts, either as budding scientists, volunteers, or through innovations in the field.

How to Participate:

Professionals interested in contributing to this exciting educational opportunity can send an email to education.reefrelief@gmail.com. Those who wish to be considered for an interview are asked to complete a short form to provide their details, allowing a Reef Relief staff member to reach out and arrange an interview time. The form is available through the following link: https://forms.gle/xtgkf7ftswrrp7q6.

By participating, marine science professionals have the chance to make a meaningful impact on the next generation of environmental stewards and inspire future careers in marine science and conservation.

For any questions or further information, Reef Relief encourages interested individuals to reach out via email at education.reefrelief@gmail.com.

Washington, D.C. – Corporate Accountability Lab (CAL) and the Southern Shrimp Alliance (SSA) have jointly filed a complaint, alleging that Best Aquaculture Practices (BAP) certification falsely portrays Indian shrimp as safe, responsibly farmed, and ethically produced despite findings of exploitative labor practices, forced labor, and harmful environmental impacts. These issues were uncovered by CAL’s research, which revealed the presence of banned antibiotics and environmentally damaging practices in the certified facilities.

Shrimp, America’s top seafood choice, sees India supplying approximately 40% of the U.S. market. Many shrimp products available in U.S. stores bear the widely recognized BAP certification label, suggesting adherence to strict environmental and labor standards.

“GSA, BAP, and retailers promote BAP certification as a way for consumers to support high standards. However, in practice, it’s mostly a marketing tool,” said CAL’s executive director, Charity Ryerson, in a statement. “Workers at certified facilities report severe exploitation, and local communities face pollution impacting fisheries and water quality, all while consumers are misled.”

A three-year investigation by CAL found that BAP-certified shrimp facilities often exhibited conditions similar to uncertified facilities, including forced labor, unsanitary living conditions, movement restrictions, underpayment, and harmful groundwater contamination. The conditions violate BAP’s advertised standards, as well as Indian and international human rights laws.

The Southern Shrimp Alliance also conducted an analysis of shrimp imports rejected by the FDA in 2024. It found that 87% of shrimp rejected for antibiotic contamination came from BAP-certified sources. Despite testing only a small portion of imports, the FDA refused 71 shipments between January and September 2024, with 62 linked to BAP-certified shippers.

“BAP’s industry-led certification scheme has not addressed the issues plaguing India’s shrimp sector,” stated SSA’s executive director, John Williams. “Instead, it obscures exploitative practices, misleading consumers who believe they are supporting ethical and sustainable products.”

Certification labels emphasizing social responsibility and sustainability continue to influence consumer choices. A recent NielsenIQ study found that products with environmental and social claims experienced 8% higher growth over five years.

Report by Corporate Accountability Lab: A comprehensive report based on three years of research and investigation by Corporate Accountability Lab (CAL) has unveiled widespread labor abuses and environmental degradation within the Indian shrimp sector. The report sheds light on forced labor, unsafe working and living conditions for shrimp supply chain workers, and the environmental impacts of shrimp farming practices. It also critiques social auditing and certification schemes like BAP, asserting that they fail to uphold their claims of ethical and sustainable production.

The report underscores that the current farmed shrimp production system is unsustainable for workers, the environment, and, ultimately, the entire supply chain from retailers to consumers. CAL’s findings reveal the prevalence of severe issues in the sector, including discrimination, hazardous child labor, sexual harassment, debt bondage, threats, intimidation, and toxic waste discharge. It also calls attention to what it describes as misleading certification schemes and a lack of regulatory oversight. The report calls on companies and governments to act urgently, addressing the need to protect workers’ rights and the environment in the shrimp industry. It emphasizes that there is no time to delay in making substantial changes to treat workers fairly and mitigate environmental harm caused by unsustainable shrimp farming practices in India.

Rabat: Morocco and Russia have expressed interest in expanding collaboration within the fisheries sector, signalling their intention to explore new opportunities for mutual growth. The announcement comes amidst a recent European Court of Justice (ECJ) ruling that has disrupted trade agreements between Morocco and the European Union, particularly those related to agriculture and fisheries.

The Russian Embassy in Morocco disclosed that a Russian research vessel has commenced a mission to study the potential utilization of small marine fish species within Morocco’s Atlantic fishing zone. While the embassy did not clarify if this research aligns with the latest fisheries agreement between the two nations, it underscores the ongoing commitment to maritime cooperation.

In 2020, Morocco and Russia renewed their fisheries partnership with a fresh agreement, replacing the one signed in 2016. This new agreement—marking the eighth since 1992—allows ten Russian vessels to fish for small pelagic species in Moroccan waters beyond the 15-nautical-mile limit.

The renewed focus on bilateral cooperation comes amid a tense legal environment created by the recent ECJ ruling. Earlier this month, the court criticized the fisheries and agricultural trade deals between the EU and Morocco, alleging that they violated the “right to self-determination” for the people of Western Sahara.

Morocco has firmly rejected the ruling, with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stating that the verdict contains “obvious legal errors and suspicious factual mistakes” and reflects a “misunderstanding of the case, if not outright political bias.”

Despite the court’s decision, Morocco continues to receive strong diplomatic backing from countries such as Spain. In a show of solidarity, Spanish Agriculture Minister Luis Planas emphasized that the ruling would not derail the close ties between Morocco, Spain, and the EU.

“If anyone believed that this ruling would slow down the progress of relations between the EU and Morocco—or between Spain and Morocco—they were mistaken. These partnerships are built not only on practical cooperation but also on mutual trust and problem-solving efforts,” Planas said on Friday.

The European Council also expressed support for Morocco, reiterating the strategic importance of its partnership with the North African country. “The EU values its close relationship with Morocco and is committed to strengthening it further,” the Council emphasized.