CSMS Message: 17-000568

On September 20th, 2016, regulations requiring the electronic filing of certain data and documents on the import, export and re-export of certain fisheries products became effective. See 50 CFR Part 300, Subpart Q. Specifically, the regulations mandated the electronic filing of data for imports of products regulated by the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) under three seafood import monitoring programs; the Tuna Tracking and Verification Program (TTVP/NOAA 370), Highly Migratory Species International Trade Program (HMS ITP), and the Antarctic Marine Living Resources (AMLR) trade program, and for the export and re-export of products under the HMS ITP and AMLR trade program.

This announcement is to reiterate the requirements and the expectations of NMFS and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) that all filings covered by the regulations must comply with the electronic filing requirements. Filers who do not comply with the requirements of 50 CFR Part 300, Subpart Q will have their filing rejected and will be unable to import, export or re-export their shipment until corrections are complete and the necessary data and documents are submitted with the Entry/Entry Summary or export filings. Over the last year, NMFS and CBP have continued to work with importers, exporters, brokers/filers, software developers and other stakeholders to facilitate the transition to electronic filing and facilitate compliance with the new regulations. Ongoing efforts have been underway to ensure that filers have the awareness, understanding and support necessary to correctly file import, export and re-export data electronically in compliance with the new regulations.

All filers must have and utilize an International Fisheries Trade Permit and, at the time of filing the Entry/Entry Summary or export filings to CBP, must electronically transmit the NMFS Partner Government Agency (PGA) specific requirements of a Message Set and, where required, document images for imports and relevant Appendix Q required data for exports and re-exports. Those engaged in the import, export or re-export of covered species must also comply with all other requirements of the TTVP/NOAA 370, HMS ITP, and AMLR trade program.

Additional information can be obtained by using the following links:

Federal Register Notice (81 FR 51126, August 3, 2016) establishing electronic filing requirements:
https://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2016-08-03/pdf/2016-18401.pdf

Additional Guidance on ITDS program details and requirements are posted on the NMFS Office of International Affairs and Seafood Inspection web site at:
http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/ia/slider_stories/2016/07/08022016_itds_final_rule.html

For additional information or questions, contact Dale Jones by email; dale.jones@noaa.gov