International Trade Permit
Introduction
The Highly Migratory Species (HMS) International Trade Permit program regulates trade, including import, export, and re-export, of the following species:
Atlantic bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus)
Pacific bluefin tuna (Thunnus orientalis)
Southern bluefin tuna (Thunnus maccoyii)
Swordfish (Xiphias gladius)
Bigeye tuna (frozen) (Thunnus obesus)
The Regulations are located at 50 CFR Part 300 Subpart M and were last modified in a Final Rule published on June 2, 2008.
In addition to the requirements identified here, there are additional import documentation requirements for frozen or processed tuna. Please go to http://dolphinsafe.gov/importation_2.htm to determine which requirements apply to your product.
Breaking News
Introducing a new way to create and submit export BCD forms!
Now Bluefin Tuna Exporters can create Bluefin Tuna Catch Documents (BCD) online with NOAA's new, secure, and easy-to-use online reporting system. Here's how:
- Click on the NOAA Bluefin Tuna Catch Document System logo below or go online to: https://www.st.nmfs.noaa.gov/noaabcd/external
- Follow the steps to create your account. Make sure you have your International Trade Permit number handy to complete the registration.
- Follow the system prompts to fill in the necessary catch and trade related data.
- Print and sign your BCD submission and its ready for your export documentation package.
- Email, Fax, or mail a copy of the BCD to: BFTReporting@noaa.gov or (978) 281-9340 or HMS Division, NMFS, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester , MA 01930.
Note: Once the new eBCD system has been in place for a sufficient amount of time, transmission of a copy will no longer be necessary.
Compliance Guide
This Compliance Guide summarizes HMS International Trade Permit program permitting and reporting requirements. If there is a discrepancy between the regulations and this guide, the regulations will take precedence.
Permit Application and Reporting Forms
International Trade Permit Application Form
For additional information on International Trade Permits, contact:
NMFS Southeast Regional Office Permits Team
263 13 th Avenue, South
St. Petersburg , FL 33701
727-824-5326
Reporting and Trade Forms
Atlantic Bluefin Tuna |
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Pacific Bluefin Tuna |
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Swordfish ![]() |
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Southern Bluefin Tuna |
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Atlantic Bigeye Tuna (frozen) |
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Pacific Bigeye Tuna (frozen) |
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Library
ITP Regulations
RIR/FRFA
ICCAT Bluefin Tuna Catch Document Instructions
HMS International Trade Permit Fact Sheet
Bluefin Tuna Exporter Letter June 3, 2008
BCD Changes Letter (Effective June 17, 2009 ) May 28, 2009
PRA