– The Ministry of Fisheries, Aquatic, and Ocean Resources said that restrictions previously affecting Sri Lankan fish exports to the United States have been removed, following official approval granted by U.S. authorities for the export of Sri Lankan blue swimming crabs.

In a statement, the Ministry said Sri Lanka successfully fulfilled the strict requirements imposed under the United States Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA), which regulates the import of seafood products into the American market. The law requires exporting countries to follow fishing practices that protect marine mammals and maintain environmental sustainability.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), which operates under the U.S. Department of Commerce, has officially confirmed that Sri Lanka’s sea crab harvesting methods and related regulatory systems meet American standards.

According to the Ministry, the approval was granted after a detailed review of scientific and technical information submitted by the Department of Fisheries, the National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA) and other relevant institutions.

The Ministry said that although a court ruling in the United States in November 2025 had created uncertainty regarding these exports, NOAA later reconsidered the matter after reviewing the evidence and scientific data presented by Sri Lankan authorities.

As part of the approval, Sri Lanka has received the mandatory “Comparability Finding” certification, which is essential for exporting seafood products to the United States. The certification will remain valid until December 31, 2029, ensuring uninterrupted access for Sri Lankan sea crab exports to the American market during this period.