April 22, 2014

Mexico introduces new rule on identification of wild, farmed shrimp origin

With an aim to establish procedures in identifying the origin of farmed shrimp, marine waters and estuaries, salt marshes and bays, a new rule has been issued by Mexico's Secretariat of Agriculture, Livestock, Rural Development, Fisheries and Food (SAGARPA).

According to the Mexican Official Standard 047-2014, published in the Official Gazette of the Federation (DOF), farmed shrimp producers as well as those of the ones captured in their natural habitat, established and operating in Mexico "are requested to have and present when required the properly completed, signed and sealed Format of 'Certificate of Origin for the Mexican Shrimp'."

This new standard is mandatory for license-holders, concession-holders and farmers of the different shrimp species in the national territory.

According to SAGARPA, it is an avant-garde rule, since there is not another one in the international sphere having the technical and legal elements and provisions being integrated and complemented in this Mexican standard.

The shrimp fishery is one of the most important ones in Mexico, being the first one as to production value.

SAGARPA - through the National Aquaculture and Fisheries Commission (CONAPESCA) - will be responsible for monitoring and verifying compliance with the new official rules.