US clears Sri Lankan blue swimming crab exports after sustainability review

Tuesday, 12 May 2026 06:30 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Sri Lanka has secured approval from United States authorities to resume uninterrupted exports of blue swimming crabs to the American market after meeting sustainability and marine protection standards imposed under US law.

The Ministry of Fisheries, Aquatic, and Ocean Resources said restrictions that had affected Sri Lankan seafood exports to the United States were lifted after the country obtained the mandatory “Comparability Finding” certification under the United States Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA).

Blue swimming crab exports are considered a valuable segment within Sri Lanka’s seafood export industry, particularly in high-value international markets including the United States. According to World Bank trade data, Sri Lanka exported prepared or preserved crab products worth over $ 16 million in 2023, with the United States accounting for more than $ 12 million of shipments

The certification, granted by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) under the US Department of Commerce, confirms that Sri Lanka’s crab harvesting practices and regulatory framework comply with American environmental and marine mammal protection standards.

According to the Ministry, the certification will remain valid until 31 December 2029, ensuring continued access for Sri Lankan sea crab exports to the US market during the period.

The MMPA requires countries exporting seafood products to the United States to adopt fishing and harvesting methods that minimise harm to marine mammals and support sustainable fisheries management practices.

The Ministry said NOAA granted approval following an extensive assessment of scientific and technical information submitted by Sri Lankan authorities, including the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources and the National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA).

The Ministry said the decision followed a review process triggered after a US court ruling in November 2025 created uncertainty over the continuation of Sri Lankan seafood exports.

However, NOAA subsequently reassessed the matter after examining additional evidence and scientific data submitted by Sri Lankan institutions.

The Ministry said the approval reflects international recognition of Sri Lanka’s fisheries management systems and compliance mechanisms relating to sustainable harvesting practices.