Abalone, Live, Fresh, or Chilled

While most commercially traded Haliotis species are not CITES-listed, several countries impose national export quotas or bans on wild-caught abalone — notably South Africa and Australia. Importers must verify that export permits and catch documentation from the source country are in order, as US Fish & Wildlife Service may review shipments for compliance with the Lacey Act.

Shipments must comply with FDA's NSSP framework, requiring shellfish certificates from Mexico's competent authority. Additionally, Lacey Act compliance documentation confirming legal harvest under Mexican fisheries law is advisable. A licensed customs broker familiar with seafood imports can help assemble the full entry package.