Affirmative findings help ensure that nations importing yellowfin tuna comply with U.S. environmental laws and requirements regarding dolphin-safe tuna.
NOAA Fisheries imposes primary nation embargos against nations that harvest yellowfin tuna in the eastern tropical Pacific Ocean using purse seine vessels with more than 400 short tons carrying capacity without an affirmative finding.
Vessel captains must complete the Tuna Tracking and Verification Program Dolphin-Safe Captain’s Training Course for tuna to be certified as dolphin-safe.
The Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) is published by the U.S. International Trade Commission. All goods imported into the United States are subject to the provisions of the HTS.
For trips that began on or after May 21, 2016, regulations require fishing vessel captains to sign and submit statements for tuna to be certified as dolphin-safe.
Spanish version of the Dolphin-Safe Captain’s Training Course and Captain's Statement Template. Vessel captains must complete the Tuna Tracking and Verification Program Dolphin-Safe Captain’s Training Course for tuna to be certified as dolphin-safe.
The Tuna Tracking and Verification Program (TTVP) conducts regular and periodic audits and spot checks on domestic canners and importers to ensure compliance with TTVP regulations.
NOAA Fisheries' Tuna Tracking and Verification Program is the only program recognized by the U.S. Government that legally satisfies all applicable federal regulations regarding dolphin-safe certification.