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Obtaining Permits for the Importation of Live Aquatic Flora and Fauna
The local ornamental fish industry continues to develop; currently there are 70 producers islandwide, ten (10)of whom export directly to Florida and California. Jamaica is currently free of any major fish diseases and pest. With growing interest in this sub–sector, it is imperative that this disease free status is maintained. Consequently, the Aquaculture Branch has instituted mandatory import guidelines and procedures for the importation of live aquatic flora and fauna.
Permit Guidelines
Permits are ONLY issued to importers with the distinct understanding that officers from the Fisheries Division will conduct all inspections and clearance services.
Permit requests submitted to the Aquaculture Branch must have the following data:
- Quantity of fish
- Species name – local and scientific
- Country of origin
A minimum of three (3) working days notice should be given to the Branch prior to the arrival of the consignment. This information should also include:
- Time of arrival
- Port of arrival
- Airline
Copies of the following documents MUST be presented to the Aquaculture Branch at the time of clearance. These documents will be placed on the file for review:
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Airway bill showing scientific and local names and quantities
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Invoice showing scientific and local names and quantities
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Import permit
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Health Certificate from a competent authority from the country of origin. The certificate MUST be written in English and no more than fifteen (15) days old
The Aquaculture Branch reserves the right to stipulate the following conditions:
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Collection of sample for testing
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Inspection of the facility prior to and after arrival of consignment to the facility.
Procedures for Issuing Live Importation Permits
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A written application should be made to the Aquaculture Branch by the importer outlining the following:
- The quantity
- The species, listing both local and complete scientific name(s)
- Country of origin
- Address of the importer’s facility
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Permit vetted by the Ornamental Fish Consultant AND / OR Research Officer. Evaluation will include:
- Species type
- Country of origin
- Disease status of country in question
N.B. The Branch reserves the right to prohibit importation of specific species.
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If application meets the above criteria, then application is approved and passed on to the Director of the Branch
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Director of Branch reviews application(s) and signs
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Director also assigns officer to clear fish
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Permit is then issued to the importer
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Fish is then inspected and cleared by the officer
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Required documents are submitted immediately after clearance of fish.
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Airway bill showing scientific and local names and quantities
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Invoice showing scientific and local names and quantities
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Import permit
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Health Certificate from a competent authority from the country of origin. The certificate MUST be written in English and no more than fifteen (15) days old
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Documents reviewed by the Branch
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Issuing duty free status is based on the understanding that the fish is only to be used for broodstock purposes and not for retail.
For more information, contact the
Fisheries Division
AQUACULTURE BRANCH
Twickenham Park
Spanish Town
Tel: 984-9343 or 984-9444
Fax: 984-5194
Email: aquabranch@moa.gov.jm
