The Marine Management Organisation (MMO) is warning UK seafood exporters to urgently review the EU’s expanded definition of processing, with new documentation rules taking effect from 10 January 2026.
Businesses that fail to comply could face export delays or stoppages once the updated regulations are enforced.
“The changes to processing documentation will almost certainly mean businesses that haven’t had to supply processing statements so far will need to start doing so in January,” said Nick Greenwood, MMO’s head of marine protection and operations services.
“Our message is clear – you need to check now whether this affects your business and take action if it does.”
The changes form part of the EU’s revised illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing regulations, which also introduce new requirements for catch certificates, non-manipulation (formerly storage) documents and processing statements.
The expanded definition of ‘processing’ will now include any seafood that has been cut, filleted, canned, smoked, salted, cooked, pickled, dried, or otherwise prepared for market.
Under the new rules, UK-caught fish that is processed in the UK before export will require a processing statement, including details of the weights of each seafood type used in the final product. Only fish that is solely frozen or packed will remain exempt.
To help businesses prepare, the MMO’s Fish, Trace, Ship campaign is providing updated FAQs, guidance and engagement events. The Fish Export Service system is also being upgraded to accommodate the new documentation requirements.
