Department of State March 31, 2010 – Federal Register Recent Federal Regulation Documents

On March 24, 2010, the Department of State notified Congress that it had withdrawn Mexico's certification under United States Public Law 101-162, Section 609, because Mexico's turtle excluder device (TED) program was not currently comparable to the United States program as required by the statute. Withdrawal of Mexican certification is primarily a compliance and environmental issue, but it does have trade implications. The United States government is providing the Government of Mexico with detailed technical recommendations and capacity-building support with a view to strengthening Mexico's sea turtle protection program. Both governments will continue to actively seek further engagement opportunities to ensure renewal of Mexican certification within the shortest period of time consistent with the requirements of U.S. law.