Santiago, Chile – According to Servicio Nacional de Pesca y Acuicultura (SERNAPESCA), starting in early 2026, the United States will require an admissibility certificate for all exports of Chilean fishery resources to ensure compliance with international sanitary and safety standards. This new regulation, announced by U.S. authorities, aims to strengthen oversight of imported seafood products to protect public health and prevent the entry of contaminated or non-compliant goods.
The measure, detailed in a recent SERNAPESCA advisory, applies to a wide range of products including fish, shellfish, and other aquatic resources originating from Chile. Exporters must now obtain the certificate from relevant Chilean authorities prior to shipment, verifying that the products meet U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requirements for hygiene, traceability, and residue limits. SERNAPESCA, as the primary regulatory body for fisheries and aquaculture in Chile, will play a central role in issuing these certificates and coordinating with exporters to facilitate smooth compliance.
This development stems from ongoing bilateral discussions between Chile and the United States to align trade practices with global standards set by organizations such as the Codex Alimentarius and the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH). The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) and the FDA have intensified scrutiny on international seafood imports following recent outbreaks of foodborne illnesses linked to imported products. By mandating the admissibility certificate, these agencies seek to mitigate risks associated with heavy metals, antibiotics, and pathogens in aquaculture and wild-caught fisheries.
For Chilean exporters, the change represents both a challenge and an opportunity. In 2025, Chile exported over 1.2 million tons of fishery products to the U.S., valued at approximately $2.5 billion, making it one of the top markets for salmon, hake, and mussels. Industry leaders, including the Chilean Salmon Industry Association (SalmonChile), have welcomed the clarity but urged SERNAPESCA to streamline the certification process to avoid delays. “This regulation underscores the importance of robust sanitary controls in our sector,” said a spokesperson for SalmonChile. “We are committed to maintaining Chile’s reputation as a reliable supplier of high-quality seafood.”
SERNAPESCA has outlined a transitional period until March 31, 2026, during which exporters can apply for certificates through an online portal integrated with the agency’s existing traceability systems. Training workshops for industry stakeholders are scheduled to begin in January 2026 across key regions like Los Lagos and Biobío, where most aquaculture operations are based. The agency emphasized that non-compliance could result in shipment rejections, fines, or bans, potentially impacting livelihoods in coastal communities dependent on fishing and related outdoor activities.
From an environmental perspective, the certificate requirement aligns with international efforts to promote sustainable fishing practices. SERNAPESCA noted that certification will include audits on sustainable sourcing, reducing overfishing pressures in Chile’s exclusive economic zone. This ties into broader global initiatives, such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 14 (Life Below Water), which calls for conservation and sustainable use of oceans and marine resources. Chilean fisheries, particularly recreational and commercial angling in Pacific waters, stand to benefit from enhanced credibility, potentially attracting eco-tourism and international partnerships.
Experts highlight that this measure could influence other markets, including the European Union, which has similar import controls. Dr. Ana María Vargas, a marine biologist at the University of Concepción, explained, “International agencies like the FDA are setting precedents that encourage nationwide improvements in monitoring. For outdoor enthusiasts and commercial fishers alike, it means safer waters and more accountable practices.” The regulation also addresses concerns over illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, a persistent issue managed through collaborations with Interpol and regional bodies like the Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR).
In response, SERNAPESCA is bolstering its inspection capabilities, including increased patrols in recreational fishing zones to ensure alignment with export standards. This holistic approach not only safeguards trade but also supports biodiversity conservation in Chile’s fjords and rivers, where outdoor activities like angling draw thousands annually. As the implementation date approaches, stakeholders are preparing for a seamless transition, viewing it as a step toward resilient, globally competitive fisheries.
The announcement comes amid a surge in international scrutiny on seafood trade, driven by climate change impacts on fish stocks and rising consumer demand for verified sustainable products. By adapting to these requirements, Chile reinforces its position in the global supply chain, ensuring that outdoor-related industries remain viable and environmentally sound.
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For more information, visit Servicio Nacional de Pesca y Acuicultura (SERNAPESCA).