Photo by Lisha Riabinina
The UK will require seafood exporters to provide new information to generate illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing documentation through the Fish Export Service from the evening of 8 January 2026. The change comes slightly earlier than the EU’s requirement, which takes effect on 10 January, with the UK choosing this date to avoid launching changes over a weekend and ensure optimal support when the new rules go live.
From 17:00 on 8 January the Fish Export Service will be unavailable whilst necessary updates are made. Once changes are complete, the system will reopen and the information will be mandatory for UK exporters to create catch certificates, processing statements or non-manipulation documents.
The Marine Management Organisation, working with all UK fishing administrations, is continuing to support industry readiness through the Fish, Trace, Ship campaign. Supporting materials and industry webinars are available to help exporters, fishermen, merchants, importers and transporters navigate the changes.
The new regulations affect all seafood and fisheries exports from the UK. From 10 January 2026, the EU will require additional information on catch certificates including the start date of fishing trips, gear type used, and the area of catch—specifying which exclusive economic zone or high seas area the catch occurred in and whether there is interest from a regional fisheries management organisation.
Processing statement requirements have been significantly expanded. Previously only required for seafood caught by non-UK vessels and processed in the UK, processing statements will now be mandatory for any seafood caught and landed by UK vessels that is subsequently processed before export. The definition of “processing” now includes cutting, filleting, canning, smoking, salting, cooking, pickling, drying or other market preparations. Fish that has only been frozen and packed will not require a processing statement.
Nick Greenwood, MMO’s Head of Marine Protection and Operations Services, emphasised the urgency of preparation. “Without the additional information needed for the Fish Export Service from January 2026, you will not be able to export your produce because of the new requirements,” Greenwood said. “Time is running out to be ready for these changes. So we are urging everyone in the UK seafood industry not to be caught out when the time comes by checking the implications for their businesses now—and take the necessary steps.”
The changes are particularly significant for Scotland’s seafood sector, which accounts for 70% of Scotland’s total seafood industry. The sector remains a cornerstone of the national economy and lifeline for many coastal and island communities.
There will be no grace period after the changes take effect, with new rules applying immediately from January 2026. Consignments without required documentation may be rejected at the EU border once regulations are in force.
The MMO has launched a series of webinars and engagement events to support industry preparation, with sessions scheduled for December 10 and 17. Businesses can register to attend and sign up for the Fish, Trace, Ship newsletter for updates.