PR – The Government of Grenada is moving forward with critical legislative reforms aimed at strengthening the management and sustainability of the fisheries sector. On Wednesday, November 19, 2025, the House of Representatives convened, debated and unanimously passed the Fisheries (Amendment) Bill 2025, which introduces key provisions to enhance marine conservation and regulatory oversight.
The amendment also seeks to provide updated information to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) in accordance with compliance measures, as part of Grenada’s efforts to seek reconsideration and reversal of its decision outlined in the communication dated August 26, 2025, which indicated that on 1st January 2026 Grenada will face fish imports ban into the United States of America because Grenada’s fisheries do not meet the comparability standards under the Marine Mammal Protected Act of the United States of America
The Bill contains four clauses, including:
- New Definitions for “observer” and “marine mammal” under the Fisheries Act. • Establishing an Observer and Monitoring Programme to improve compliance and management.
- Provisions for the Minister to enact Regulations for the Protection and Conservation of Marine Mammals and,
- Empowering the Minister to create offences and impose penalties of up to XCD $100,000 and/or 12 months imprisonment where the Regulations are violated.
In preparation for these changes, the Ministry of the Blue Economy and Marine Affairs continued its nationwide consultations with stakeholders. On Friday, November 14, the Ministry hosted a meeting at the St. George’s Fisheries Complex Conference Room, where fisherfolks and fish processing and exporting establishments voiced concerns about export restrictions to the United States and other pressing industry issues.
The consultations also addressed the upcoming Fisheries (Marine Mammals) Regulations, 2025, which aim to:
- Prohibit intentional harm or sale of marine mammals.
- Mandate reporting of incidental catches and interactions.
- Restrict harmful fishing gear, such as large-scale driftnets.
- Implement a Marine Mammals Management Plan to monitor species and reduce human induced threats.
Compete Caribbean/IDB Partnership to Support Digital Monitoring and Traceability
Complementing these legislative advancements, the Government welcomed the ongoing collaboration with Compete Caribbean Plus and the Inter-American Development Bank on a proposed pilot initiative to introduce digital vessel monitoring and a fisheries data platform.
The pilot will support the installation of 20 Remora Electronic Monitoring/Vessel Monitoring System (EMS/VMS) devices on longline vessels, alongside a modern data intelligence and visualization platform to improve traceability, monitor fishing effort, and support compliance with emerging regulatory requirements. The initiative also includes comprehensive training and knowledge transfer to vessel owners, processors, and Government technical staff.
Permanent Secretary with responsibility for the Blue Economy and Marine Affairs, Javan Williams, stated:
“Our marine resources are vital to Grenada’s economy and heritage. These amendments will ensure that we protect marine mammals while supporting a sustainable fishing industry. We are committed to working hand-in-hand with our fisherfolks to achieve this balance.”
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to balancing economic opportunities with environmental stewardship, ensuring Grenada’s fisheries remain sustainable for future generations.
