Starting January 1, 2026, Grenada will be prohibited from exporting fish to the United States due to its failure to comply with the Marine Mammals Protection Act (MMPA) of 1972. This ban, announced by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), marks a significant blow to Grenada’s economy, as the US has been its primary market for fish exports, particularly yellowfin tuna. The fishing industry, which contributes millions in foreign exchange annually, supports thousands of jobs directly and indirectly, from fishermen to local businesses in communities like Gouyave and Carriacou. The ban stems from Grenada’s inability to meet NOAA’s requirements for monitoring and reporting marine mammal bycatch, as well as its failure to adopt fishing gear standards, such as circle hooks, which reduce harm to marine life. Despite warnings and opportunities to address these issues, Grenada’s fisheries authority has not implemented necessary reforms, leaving the industry vulnerable. The ban threatens to devastate the fishing sector, which is a cornerstone of Grenada’s rural and national economy. Recommendations include strengthening data collection, updating fisheries legislation, and establishing a competent Fisheries Advisory Committee to ensure sustainable practices and compliance with international standards. The crisis underscores the urgent need for systemic reforms to protect both marine ecosystems and the livelihoods of Grenadian fisherfolk.