Business · Philippines Bureau
Philippines seeks US market reopening for blue swimming crabs
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources are spearheading efforts to restore Philippine blue swimming crab exports to the United States, which halted imports in June. Officials said they are awaiting regulatory ordinances as part of the appeal process.
LSN Philippines ·
BACOLOD CITY — Philippine authorities are mobilizing to regain access to the United States market for blue swimming crabs following Washington's suspension of imports in June.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources have taken the lead in appealing the import ban, according to BFAR Negros Island Region officer-in-charge Director Rene Parreño. The regulatory bodies are currently awaiting the issuance of ordinances that would support their case for market reinstatement.
Blue swimming crabs represent a significant export commodity for Philippine fisheries, particularly in the Negros region. The June suspension has disrupted trade flows and affected local fishing communities that depend on access to the lucrative US market.
Official details regarding the reasons for the US import suspension and the specific requirements needed to restore market access remain limited. The coordinated effort between the DFA and BFAR underscores the importance of the trade relationship and the urgency of resolving the import restrictions.