Importing Blackfish Into BVI Prohibited
The Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change warns that importing whale meat, sometimes called 'blackfish', into the Virgin Islands is banned. The Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) Act, 2020 and local fisheries regulations enforce this prohibition, with stiff fines and possible imprisonment for offenders.
The Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change has reminded residents that the importation of whale meat, often referred to as 'blackfish', into the Virgin Islands is strictly prohibited. Trade in whale meat and other whale-derived products is regulated internationally by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) and enforced locally under the Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) Act, 2020.
Under that law, anyone convicted on summary charges for illegal importation of CITES-controlled species faces a fine of up to USD 100,000, up to one year in prison, or both. Environment Officer Argel Horton said reports have indicated whale meat circulating in the Territory for sale.
She acknowledged the Territory's diverse cultural practices where marine mammals may be harvested as part of heritage, but stressed that such activities are not permitted in the Virgin Islands. Horton noted that whales and other marine mammals are essential to ocean health and are fully protected under Regulation 29 of the Virgin Islands Fisheries Regulations, 2003.
Regulation 29 states that no person shall take, kill, damage or fish for any marine mammal in fishery waters. Importing marine mammals for commercial sale would conflict with the Territory's policy of full protection for these species and would contravene obligations under CITES, the Ministry said.
The statement reaffirmed the BVI's commitment to international conservation measures and to safeguarding marine ecosystems that support fisheries, tourism and coastal communities. Residents are urged not to buy or transport whale meat and to report any suspected illegal importation or sale.
The Ministry has asked anyone with information to contact the Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change at 468-2147. Additional enquiries may be directed to the Department of Information and Public Relations at bmckelly@gov.vg. International media enquiries can be sent to BVIGovernment@dgagroup.com.
The Government reminded the public that its one-stop shop for government services is available at 468-3701 for assistance, office connections or to book appointments. The Ministry said it will continue monitoring imports and working with enforcement agencies to protect marine wildlife and the wider marine environment of the Virgin Islands.
Primary source: BVI Government