The 2008 Farm Bill and subsequent USDA rulemaking transferred inspection authority for siluriform fish (catfish and related species) from FDA to USDA FSIS, aligning imported catfish with the same mandatory federal inspection framework that applies to beef, pork, and poultry. Foreign establishments must be certified by their national competent authority and approved by FSIS to export catfish to the US.

Catfish from countries that have not received FSIS equivalence recognition cannot legally enter US commerce as food. Such shipments would be refused entry and must be re-exported or destroyed. Importers should verify FSIS country and establishment eligibility lists before contracting with foreign suppliers to avoid costly refusals at the port.