New Export Rules Could Block Saint Lucia Sea Moss Shipments to the U.S.
Saint Lucia’s rapidly expanding sea moss industry is now facing stricter international export requirements, as exporters are being warned that shipments without key certification documents could be denied entry into overseas markets. Chief Executive Officer of Export Saint Lucia, Sunita Daniel, revealed that sea moss exporters are now required to secure both an Export Certificate […] The post New Export Rules Could Block Saint Lucia Sea Moss Shipments to the U.S. appeared first on Saint Lucia Daily Post.
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Saint Lucia’s rapidly expanding sea moss industry is now facing stricter international export requirements, as exporters are being warned that shipments without key certification documents could be denied entry into overseas markets.
Chief Executive Officer of Export Saint Lucia, Sunita Daniel, revealed that sea moss exporters are now required to secure both an Export Certificate and a Phytosanitary Certificate before their products can leave the island. The move comes amid evolving international trade standards and growing scrutiny from global markets.
According to Daniel, the new requirements are aimed at assuring overseas buyers that Saint Lucia’s sea moss meets the highest safety and quality standards. She noted that the local sea moss sector has grown significantly in recent years, but with that growth has come increased competition and tighter regulations.
Back in September 2024, Export Saint Lucia identified sea moss as Saint Lucia’s flagship export product, with more than 90 percent of exports entering the United States market. The agency also reported expanding demand from countries including Australia, New Zealand and members of the European Union.
Daniel explained that exporters who fail to secure the necessary documents before arriving at customs could face major setbacks, stressing that the industry must continue adapting if Saint Lucia hopes to remain competitive globally.
She stated that the country is working to maintain its reputation as a leading player in the international sea moss trade by continuously improving standards and strengthening export systems.
In addition to the Export Certificate and Phytosanitary Certificate, Daniel disclosed that sea moss exports destined for the United States must now also include a Certificate of Admissibility (COA). The document is used to clear restricted foreign goods, particularly seafood and aquaculture products, for legal entry into the U.S. market and confirms compliance with strict American environmental and trade regulations.
Daniel noted that while exporters previously had fewer entry requirements for the U.S. market, American authorities are now insisting that Saint Lucian sea moss exporters obtain the COA before shipments are approved.
She added that the Certificate of Admissibility can be obtained through the Fisheries Department within the Ministry of Agriculture or directly through Export Saint Lucia.
The post New Export Rules Could Block Saint Lucia Sea Moss Shipments to the U.S. appeared first on Saint Lucia Daily Post.
