Gov't denies issuing licence for importation of lobster

The Ministry of Agriculture on Tuesday denied issuing veterinary permits for the importation of lobster into Jamaica.

In a statement, the ministry said claims being made on social media and other platforms about the importation of Caribbean Spiny Lobsters (Panulirus argus) are not true and that a veterinary import permit is required before the importation of any animal, including lobsters, all animal products or animal byproducts.

It also said that the majority of lobsters harvested in Jamaican waters are exported in accordance with international standards and local laws, reiterating that no importation permit has been issued.

The authorities said together with the regulatory entities, including the National Fisheries Authority, they are working with the Jamaica Customs Agency to closely monitor all imports and exports of fish, fishery products and by-products.

They said they would continue to facilitate the licensing of all fishers engaged in the fisheries sector and in this regard, issues licences for the harvesting and processing of lobsters to qualified individuals and entities.

-CMC NEWS-

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