Advocacy Update l Court Settlement Stays Crab Import Ban
The Restaurant Law Center, National Fisheries Institute (NFI), and other named plaintiffs, have reached a settlement with the U.S. government in litigation challenging NOAA’s Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) import restrictions. This is a significant development for seafood importers and restaurant operators who rely on blue swimming crab from key overseas fisheries.
Key Outcomes of the Settlement
Import Ban Stayed:
The court has officially paused the January 1, 2026 import prohibitions for swimming crab from Vietnam, the Philippines, Indonesia, and Sri Lanka. Shipments from these fisheries may continue.
Regulatory Timeline:
- The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) will begin reconsidering its prior negative determinations within 60 days of the government reopening and accept resubmissions and public comments.
- 180 Days After Government Reopening: NMFS is expected to issue new public determinations.
Court Oversight Maintained:
The court retains jurisdiction to ensure compliance, allowing for legal action if commitments are not met.
What This Means for RestaurantsThis development provides a critical reprieve for U.S. crab meat importers and processors, many of whom supply the restaurant industry. The settlement helps avoid immediate supply disruptions and ensures continued access to high-quality seafood.We will continue coordinating our members, suppliers, other stakeholders to support industry engagement during the comment period.