The U.S. government is putting restrictions on Mexican fishing boats entering U.S. ports over allegations that the Mexican government has failed to prevent illegal fishing in U.S. waters.
Starting Feb. 7, all Mexican fishing boats in the Gulf of Mexico will be prohibited from entering U.S. ports. It’s a response to Mexico’s failure to combat unauthorized fishing harming Gulf coast fisheries, according to a report released by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
The fishing boats are catching red snapper in U.S. waters using lines and nets that also trap other marine life as bycatch.
Environmental groups have applauded the move, calling it a “clear message” to Mexican leaders that they must improve enforcement of fishing practices or risk losing a seafood trade partner.
“This is an example of how rampant illegal fishing is in Mexico,” said Alejandro Olivera with the Center for Biological Diversity. “Mexican fisheries enforcement has been weakened since the start of this administration.”
Read more:
https://www.azpm.org/p/headlines/2022/1/18/205833-us-puts-restrictions-on-mexican-boats-over-illegal-fishing/