Norwegian seafood will continue to enter the United States after Washington approved Norway’s compliance with new marine mammal bycatch rules, the government said.
In a press release published on September 1, 2025, Norway’s Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Fisheries stated that the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has approved the country’s application under the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA). The approval runs until 31 December 2029 and allows exports to continue when stricter US rules take effect in 2026.
“The United States is an important market for Norwegian seafood. This is good news for the industry and for Norwegian exports,” said Fisheries and Ocean Minister Marianne Sivertsen Næss, adding that the decision confirms Norway’s “responsible and sustainable” practices.
The MMPA requires foreign fisheries and aquaculture to meet US standards on incidental catch of marine mammals such as whales, dolphins and seals. Countries needed US approval by December 31, 2025, to avoid trade restrictions.
The ministry said Norway had submitted extensive documentation and provided further information during the process. It will continue to coordinate work to ensure the rules are met in the years ahead.
FACTS: Norway–US seafood access
- Approval body: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
- Legal basis: US Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA)
- Status: Norway approved for continued access to the US market
- Timeline: New US rules apply from 2026; approval valid to 31 December 2029; approval deadline was 31 December 2025
- Stakeholders: Norwegian Ministry of Trade, Industry and Fisheries; Fisheries and Ocean Minister Marianne Sivertsen Næss; Norwegian seafood exporters