(Seattle, WA) – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) celebrated an announcement by the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) that the United States and European Union (EU) have concluded negotiations to allow for resumption of bilateral trade in bivalve molluscan shellfish.
For the first time since 2011, U.S. producers (beginning in the states of Massachusetts and Washington) are eligible to export live, raw and processed bivalve molluscan shellfish to the EU, including oysters, clams, mussels, and whole or roe-on scallops.
“This is great news for Washington state’s shellfish industry,” said Senator Murray. “Our producers deserve a fair shake and the opportunity to sell their goods—that’s what I’m focused on. I will always fight to lift any barriers facing Washington state producers trying to reach important markets, and I’ll keep working closely with Biden-Harris administration to do just that.”
EU producers in Spain and the Netherlands are also now eligible to export live and raw bivalve molluscan shellfish to the United States. Trade between the United States and EU is anticipated to begin on February 24, 2022, after publication of relevant materials by regulatory authorities in both governments.
More details on the requirements for exporting to the EU are available from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and can be found HERE.
More details on the requirements for exporting to the EU are available from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and can be found HERE.
Both regulatory agencies will provide additional updates and instructions for exporters and importers ahead of February 24.
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