A regional dialogue on the conservation of marine mammals and sea turtles was convened in Chennai on August 28, 2024, bringing together experts, policymakers, and stakeholders from 11 countries and international organizations such as the World Bank, FAO and IUCN. The event, organized by BOBP-IGO, ICAR-CMFRI, and MPEDA, focused on addressing the challenges of meeting U.S. trade obligations under

The Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) and similar regulations for sea turtles.

USA enacted the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA), stipulating that fish exported to the US should be captured in a manner that does not result in greater incidental mortality or serious injury to marine mammals. Submission of ‘Comparability Finding Application” is a mandatory requirement to continue exporting fish and fish products to the U.S. Similarly, U.S. law provides that wild-caught shrimp or products from wild-caught shrimp harvested with commercial fisheries that adversely affect the sea turtles may not be imported to the United States.

While countries, especially the USA's trading partners, are taking steps to meet these standards, they are facing challenges as they need to take significant additional steps to come into compliance with the Rule, bridge the gaps in regulation, enforcement, engagement, and knowledge, and explore practical solutions that can effectively reduce bycatch while supporting sustainable livelihoods.

The Regional Dialogue was moderated by Dr K Arulananthan, National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA), Sri Lanka; Dr Grinson George, Director, ICAR-CMFRI; and Dr Karthikeyan, Director, MPEDA. Dr P Krishnan, Director, BOBP-IGO briefed the purpose and context of the Regional Dialogue.

India and Bangladesh share their experience in the preparation and submission of the ‘Comparability Finding Application’ to the standards prescribed by the USA. Maldives and Sri Lanka informed that they do not have to trawl, however, there are measures in place to save the megafauna. Countries also shared difficulties in stock assessment of megafauna and appreciate India’s initiative in this regard.

The dialogue concluded with a consensus on the need for regional collaboration, potentially led by India, to enhance research and conservation efforts. A proposal to establish a network of research organizations and management institutions across the region was also discussed, aiming to strengthen the conservation of marine mammals and turtles while supporting sustainable fisheries.