Judge Upholds Ban on Antarctic Fish Imports Amid Russia's Conservation Standoff

A U.S. judge has blocked Chilean sea bass imports, siding with regulators amid a diplomatic dispute with Russia. The conflict stems from Russia's veto of fishing limits set by an international conservation commission. Environmentalists praise the decision, while industry voices warn of economic repercussions.

A federal judge in Florida has upheld a ban on imports of a high-value fish from protected Antarctic waters, marking a significant development in a diplomatic standoff spurred by Russia's refusal to adhere to conservation efforts in the region.

Judge David Leibowitz dismissed a lawsuit by Southern Cross Seafoods, which claimed economic damages due to the U.S. ban on Chilean sea bass imports. The court's decision highlights ongoing tensions after Russia rejected international catch limits, effectively vetoing the proposals by the Commission on the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR).

While environmental groups have lauded the ruling as a defense of international cooperation on marine conservation, representatives from the fishing industry caution that this decision may harm American businesses and contribute to food inflation.

(With inputs from agencies.)