Scope of Coverage
- Covers importation of live fish, fishery aquatic products, aquatic microorganisms, biomolecules including GMOs, and endangered species.
- Includes coordination with other regulatory agencies like the Bureau of Plant Industry, Bureau of Animal Industry, and others.
Importation Risk Categories
- Low-Risk Species: Aquarium fish posing no ecological, genetic, or disease threat.
- Medium-Risk Species: Aquaculture or ornamental species with potential environmental impact.
- High-Risk Species: Exotic species not yet introduced or with restricted distribution; includes GMOs.
- Prohibited/Banned Species: Species barred from import due to adverse effects.
Prohibition on Unauthorized Importation
- Importing live fish, fishery products, microorganisms, and biomolecules without a valid BFAR permit is illegal.
Application for Import Permit
- Low-risk species: Apply at least 5 working days prior; 150 pesos application fee; requires pro-forma invoice and business permits.
- Medium-risk species: Apply 10-15 days prior with similar requirements.
- High-risk species: Decision given within 30 days after detailed evaluation.
- Prohibited species import requests are rejected.
Import Risk Analysis (IRA) Review Panel
- Composed of experts including a fish health officer, lawyer, quarantine officer, fisheries biologist, and NFARMC member.
- Classifies species and serves as secretariat for import risk cases.
Importation Requirements by Category
- Low-Risk: Simplified application; risk analysis only if disease outbreak reported.
- Medium-Risk: Detailed proposal, IRA review, health certificate required, quarantine period as decided.
- High-Risk: Comprehensive evaluation including health certificate and quarantine until first generation offspring.
- Prohibited species: No import permits issued.
Import Permit Issuance and Duration
- BFAR Director issues permits post-fulfillment of requirements.
- Permits expire 30 days after issuance.
Inspection Upon Arrival
- Submission of import permit, invoice, airway bill, and health certificate.
- Examination by Fisheries Quarantine Officer and potential laboratory tests.
- Unhealthy shipments may be treated under supervision or destroyed if high risk.
Transitory Provisions
- Previously imported high risk and prohibited species without permits shall be monitored and may be destroyed if causing adverse effects.
Penalties for Violation
- Imprisonment up to 8 years, fine of P80,000.
- Destruction or forfeiture of imported species.
- Ban on being member or stockholder in fisheries companies.
Repeal Clause
- Repeals FAO No. 135, s. 1981, and any conflicting orders or rules.
Effectivity
- Effective 15 days after publication and registration with the National Administrative Register.