Notice to industry: Import restrictions for live Litopenaeus vannamei (whiteleg shrimp) from Texas and Florida

The CFIA has been notified of detections of Infectious Hypodermal and Haematopoietic Necrosis virus in Litopenaeus vannamei (whiteleg shrimp) populations in Texas and Florida.

This viral disease is immediately notifiable and currently not present in Canada. In order to protect Canada's crustacean populations, imports of live Litopenaeus vannamei from Texas and Florida are prohibited for the following end uses:

• culture
• research and education
• diagnostic testing
• aquarium – commercial or private
• outdoor holding unit – commercial or private

Import permits for live L. vannamei for the end uses listed above, originating from Texas and Florida have been cancelled. The CFIA is committed to working with the United States aquatic animal health authorities to ensure that Canada's aquatic animal resources are protected and that impacts on trade are minimized.

Find more information on Infectious Hypodermal and Haematopoietic Necrosis virus.

Importers with questions may consult their local CFIA office for more information.