Business

South Africa Keeps US Seafood Market with Sustainable Fishing

Published

5 hours ago

September 9, 2025

Chiraag

South Africa fisheries, US seafood market, sustainable fishing, bycatch compliance, South Africa seafood exports, marine conservation trade, Joburg ETC

Trade Victory Anchored in Sustainability

South Africa’s fishing sector has landed a crucial deal. Local fish and seafood will continue to reach American markets well into 2026 and beyond, thanks to the country’s compliance with US bycatch laws. The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment confirmed the decision, describing it as a mark of confidence in South Africa’s ability to uphold international environmental standards while safeguarding trade.

What Bycatch Means for Our Oceans

Bycatch happens when commercial fishing nets unintentionally trap protected species such as turtles, dolphins, or seabirds. The United States requires exporting nations to prove that their regulations match American standards on limiting these accidental captures. Without proof, access to the lucrative US market would have been off the table.

How South Africa Met the Standard

South Africa’s Marine Living Resources Act already provides strong protections, from mandatory permits and observer programmes on vessels to logbooks and reporting systems when incidents occur. This framework satisfied US authorities that local fleets are operating responsibly. Industry players also played their part, cooperating with the government throughout the review.

Keeping the Net Wide Open

The continued approval means South Africa can keep supplying fish and seafood to one of the world’s largest markets, securing jobs and income for the industry. It also underscores that environmental responsibility is no longer optional for global trade but the ticket to entry.

Looking Ahead

The government has promised to update and review the Marine Living Resources Act to ensure local laws stay aligned with evolving sustainability goals. The approval is both a commercial and environmental win. For South Africa, it proves that protecting marine life goes hand in hand with keeping its fishing economy competitive on the world stage.