Get Ready for Change: Fish, Trace, Ship Campaign Launched

The UK’s Fisheries Administrations are taking proactive steps to prepare the seafood supply chain for significant changes in export regulations to EU businesses, set to take effect on January 10, 2026. The newly launched Fish, Trace, Ship campaign aims to equip stakeholders in the UK’s seafood sector with the necessary information and resources to navigate these upcoming changes smoothly.

Understanding the New EU Regulations

The European Union is poised to revise its regulations concerning Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing. As a result, every participant in the UK seafood supply chain must understand their role in ensuring that exports to the EU continue without interruption when these regulations are implemented.

Key Components of the Fish, Trace, Ship Campaign

Led by the Marine Management Organisation (MMO), the Fish, Trace, Ship initiative will outline specific actions required from various parts of the supply chain, including fishers, merchants, processors, and exporters. This collaborative approach is essential for compliance with the new export requirements.

Insights from MMO’s Leadership

Nick Greenwood, Head of Marine Protection and Operations Services at MMO, emphasized the urgency of adapting to these changes. “Everyone involved in catching, buying, processing, and selling fish and seafood destined for EU markets needs to act early to adopt the changes we’re making to the UK Fish Export Service,” he noted.

Greenwood further cautioned that without the updated information required by the Fish Export Service post-January 2026, businesses may find themselves unable to export their products to the EU.

Support for the Seafood Industry

To facilitate a smooth transition, the Fish, Trace, Ship campaign will offer resources, including educational guides and updates on compliance measures. “We want to work with the industry to ensure that no business is unprepared for the changes,” Greenwood stated. Early adaptation, he believes, will lead to fewer disruptions as the deadline approaches.

Stay Informed

The MMO has established a dedicated campaign site, which serves as a comprehensive resource for all stakeholders. This platform will provide ongoing updates, news, and educational materials to keep businesses informed.

Participants in the UK seafood industry are strongly encouraged to subscribe for updates to stay aligned with the latest developments as they unfold.

For More Information

To find out more about the Fish, Trace, Ship campaign, visit the official government announcement.