The CCAMLR CDS is an international catch documentation program requiring that all toothfish shipments be accompanied by a government-validated certificate tracing the fish from harvest vessel through each point of trade to the final importer. US Customs and Border Protection will not release toothfish shipments without a valid CDS document; missing or irregular documentation results in detention or refusal. Consult a licensed customs broker experienced in CCAMLR compliance before importing.

Because toothfish commands a high market price, substitution with lower-value species is a documented problem. Importers increasingly require DNA species authentication from accredited laboratories as a condition of purchase, and FDA's import surveillance program includes species identity testing. Maintaining robust supplier audit records and chain-of-custody documentation also reduces exposure to FDA import alerts.