National Aquatic Animal Health Program

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency’s (CFIA) National Aquatic Animal Health Program (NAAHP) is a science-based regulatory program. It addresses aquatic animal diseases of finfish, molluscs and crustaceans.

The program is consistent with international standards set by the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE).

The program regulates aquatic animal health as per the Health of Animals Act and Regulations.

The NAAHP is co-delivered by the CFIA and Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO). The CFIA is the lead federal authority and is responsible for the administration and enforcement. DFO provides the laboratory and research expertise through the National Aquatic Animal Laboratory System.

The Program is being implemented using a phased approach. Mandatory disease notification comes into effect immediately upon publication of the regulations in Canada Gazette, Part II. One year following that date, the requirements for import permits will be brought into force. Movement controls within Canada will likely come into force two years later.