The ban may be lifted soon if safety standards are met
By Travis Chase | HGP Nightly News
The United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is actively reviewing the latest submissions from the Government of Guyana regarding the longstanding ban on catfish exports to the United States.
In a recent interview, US Ambassador to Guyana Nicole Theriot confirmed that the Government of Guyana had submitted comprehensive documentation within the past month, responding to new technical questions posed by US food safety authorities.
“The government of Guyana has responded quite comprehensively to the latest round of questions. The ban is strictly about ensuring that anything entering the U.S. is safe for consumption,” said Ambassador Theriot.
The ban has existed since 2017, primarily due to non-compliance with US food safety regulations. Under USDA requirements, catfish must be transported alive to the processing plant, which conflicts with Guyana’s traditional practice of gutting and icing fish before it reaches shore.
In addition to live transport requirements, Guyana must demonstrate that its food safety systems — including inspection procedures, sanitation controls, and hazard analysis protocols (HACCP) — are equivalent to US standards.
Key Requirements for Reinstatement of Exports:
- Transport catfish alive to the processing plant
- Maintain sanitation records and inspector presence at processing facilities
- Fully implement HACCP protocols during packaging
- Submit proof of how adulterated products are identified and managed
While the USDA continues its review, a follow-up with additional questions or a final decision on lifting the ban is expected.
Since assuming office in 2020, the Guyanese government has worked closely with US counterparts to restore the lucrative catfish export trade, which has been a significant source of income for local fishers and exporters.
