Importation of Aquatic Animals Into Canada

CFIA Import Program

The growth and globalization of international trade in aquatic animals has expanded rapidly over the last decade. Up until 2005, the importation of live fish was regulated by the Department of Fisheries and Oceans under the Fisheries Act. However, the Fisheries Act was not specifically designed to prevent the introduction of aquatic animal diseases into Canada. To address this risk, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has assumed regulatory authority and is working with DFO on transition of the import program for introduction of aquatic animals into Canada under the Health of Animals Act.

The CFIA has a long history of regulating the importation of terrestrial animals and animal products. As part of the new aquatic animal health program within CFIA, amendments are being developed to the Health of Animals Regulations to reflect the inclusion of aquatic animals. Where possible, the aquatic animal import program will build on existing program infrastructure and operational networks.

As part of the proposed regulatory changes, permits will be required to import live aquatic animals into Canada -including specific regulated fish species, molluscs and crustaceans. Initial consultation on regulatory change has begun and will continue as formal regulatory processes proceed. Interested parties will have the opportunity to comment on proposed changes through the Canada Gazette process. Regulatory changes to the importation of aquatic animals will apply immediately once the Canada Gazette process is completed. To ensure all clients, importers and brokers fully understand this new requirement, a transition period will be provided.

Importers of aquatic animals are encouraged to become familiar with the existing CFIA import permit system, which will be used for the new aquatic animal health import program.

About Import Permits

Most live terrestrial animal imports into Canada require a valid import permit. Permits contain specific requirements based on the health risks associated with the animal, the origin, and other relevant health information. Import permits for aquatic animals are expected to be similar, and imports would require a health certification from the country of origin that meets Canada's aquatic animal health requirements.

Import permits for live terrestrial animals and other regulated products can be found on the CFIA website. Importers should be aware that any conditions associated with animal imports are posted on the Automated Import Retrieval System (AIRS). AIRS can be accessed through the CFIA website at: http://airs-sari.inspection.gc.ca.