Grenada presses govt to deal with US ban
ST. GEORGE’S – The main opposition New National Party (NNP) has reiterated a call for the Grenada government to act urgently after the United States imposed a ban on all fish and fish products from the Caribbean island as of January 1, this year.
The measure follows Grenada’s failure to provide a “comparability finding” showing its fishing operations do not intentionally kill or seriously injure marine mammals, as required by the US Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA).
Late last year, the Dickon Mitchell government had indicated that it would amend the existing fishing legislation, increasing also the penalty as the island sought to comply with measures outlined by Washington.
In August 2025, the US announced it would ban fish imports from the island starting January 1, 2026, a major blow to Grenada’s economy, given that the US has been the primary export destination for its fish, particularly yellow fin tuna, a trade worth over EC$50 million (One EC dollar=US$0.37 cents) annually and supporting thousands of livelihoods.
In a statement, the NNP warned that “delayed responses including the late passing of a legislation and limited engagement are deepening hardship for families and threatening wider economic stability”.
It said that it held meetings with fishermen and other stakeholders bringing “party leaders face-to-face with fishermen whose livelihoods have been disrupted and families struggling with uncertainty”.
NNP political leader, Emmalin Pierre, said the situation reflects a broader failure of communication and crisis management.
“Fishing supports thousands of families, feeds communities, and contributes millions to the national economy. This is a national issue that demands coordinated and urgent government action. Late, long-term legislation alone is not enough,” said Pierre, who is also the Opposition Leader in the Parliament.
NNP legislator, Norland Cox, whose constituency includes many of the communities most directly affected, spoke of the real and immediate hardship facing fishermen in Carriacou and Petite Martinique.
“These are hardworking men and women who want to work. What they need is clear communication, interim support, and realistic options while longer-term solutions are pursued. Too many families are being asked to carry this burden alone,” Cox said in the absence of alternative markets.
The NNP said that instead of prioritising support and solutions, the Dickon Mitchell government has focused on defending its record and attacking those advocating for fishermen, while critical questions remain unanswered.
“The NNP will continue to engage affected communities and call for decisive action that protects livelihoods, sustains coastal economies, and safeguards Grenada’s food security and economic stability.” (CMC)
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