The UK’s Fisheries Administrations have launched a new campaign to prepare the nation’s seafood supply chain for upcoming changes to EU export rules.
Led by the Marine Management Organisation (MMO), the ‘Fish, Trace, Ship’ campaign is in response to the updated illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing regulations which will come into force on 10 January 2026.
These changes will require all sectors involved in the UK’s seafood exports, from catch to shipment, to provide enhanced traceability and documentation.
“Everyone involved in catching, buying, processing and selling fish and seafood destined for EU markets needs to act early to adopt the changes we’re making to the UK Fish Export Service so our fish and seafood products can continue to be exported,” said Nick Greenwood, MMO’s head of Marine Protection and Operations Services.
Greenwood warned that failure to meet the new requirements would result in a halt to exports. “Without the additional information needed for the Fish Export Service from January 2026, you will not be able to export your produce because of the EU’s new requirements,” he said.
The campaign aims to raise awareness and provide practical guidance to the industry. “We want to work with industry to make sure that no business is unprepared for the changes. Adapting early will make for a smoother transition,” Greenwood added.
A dedicated campaign website has been launched to serve as a central hub for resources and educational guides. Businesses are encouraged to sign up for updates and attend online engagement events in the coming months.
“The support is there – we just need the industry to engage,” said Greenwood.
