by Linda Straker
- Reapplication for comparability finding submitted before 1 January 2026
- US fish ban went into effect on 1 January 2026
- Fish exporters and processors unable to ship products to US
Although it amended the Fisheries Act and Regulations, Grenada has not averted the fish ban as imposed by the United States, which went into effect on 1 January 2026. As a result, Grenada’s fish exporters and processors are unable to ship any fish or fish products to the USA.
On 29 August 2025, the US announced in the Federal Registry that Grenada was one of 12 states that did not apply for a comparability finding as required under the Marine Mammal Protection Act Import Provisions.
In November 2025, Marine Affairs Minister Lennox Andrews and Adrian Thomas, Leader of Government Business in the Upper House, told the Parliament that it was the Government’s hope that the amendments would avert the fish ban.
In a 2 January 2026 press release, the Ministry of the Blue Economy and Marine Affairs confirmed that Grenada successfully submitted a complete reapplication for a comparability finding through the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) International Affairs Information Capture and Reporting System (IAICRS) before the 1 January 2026 implementation date.
“NOAA has formally acknowledged receipt of Grenada’s reapplication, and the review process is currently underway. NOAA has advised that the timing of a final determination will depend on the completion of its legal, scientific, and administrative review processes.” The release explained that the Government had taken decisive steps to address the issues identified by NOAA.
The release also said that the Government recognised the significant economic and social importance of the fisheries sector and remains committed to protecting fisher livelihoods and export market access, strengthening sustainable fisheries management, and ensuring compliance with international trade and conservation standards.
“Fisherfolk and stakeholders are encouraged to continue complying with reporting and monitoring requirements, as these measures are critical to securing a positive outcome,” the release instructed.
Following the announcement of the ban, the Ministry of Marine Affairs said it is working towards having the ban lifted before 2027. “The ministry is working collaboratively with stakeholders, legal experts, and partners to restore access to the US seafood market in 2026 and to uphold Grenada’s reputation for responsible marine stewardship.” That release was disseminated via the Government Information Service (GIS) in early September 2025.
