Product Offerings
Products:
Advocacy: Policy Advocacy, Regulatory Affairs
Education: Public Education, Nutrition Information
Sustainability: Seafood Sustainability Initiatives
The National Fisheries Institute (NFI) is the leading trade association for the seafood industry in the United States, dedicated to education, advocacy, and sustainable seafood practices. Headquartered in McLean, Virginia, NFI represents the full spectrum of the seafood value chain—from harvesters and processors to distributors, retailers, and foodservice operators. Through its policy leadership, scientific education, and consumer engagement efforts, NFI serves as the unifying voice for America’s seafood industry.
Core Business
NFI functions as a non-profit organization that supports its members by promoting sustainable seafood, ensuring food safety, influencing policy decisions, and enhancing public understanding of the nutritional benefits of seafood. It advocates for free trade, transparent labeling, and responsible sourcing, while facilitating collaboration across private and public stakeholders in the seafood ecosystem.
Product & Service Offerings
- Advocacy
- Representation before the U.S. Congress, FDA, NOAA, and international bodies
- Trade and tariff advisory
- Regulatory affairs and legal counsel on labeling and sustainability compliance
- Education
- Nutrition campaigns promoting seafood consumption
- Public relations initiatives addressing seafood misinformation
- Seafood safety information and best practices for handling and preparation
- Sustainability
- Promotion of science-based fishery management
- Collaboration with the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) and other certifiers
- Industry support for responsible aquaculture practices
NFI is a central hub for seafood knowledge, connecting businesses and consumers with accurate and science-backed insights.
Specialization & USP
NFI distinguishes itself through:
- An evidence-driven approach to seafood nutrition, sustainability, and safety
- The Seafood Nutrition Partnership, a leading public health campaign to increase U.S. seafood consumption
- The Future Leaders Program, a professional development initiative building the next generation of seafood industry executives
- Access to extensive regulatory networks and policy-making forums in Washington, D.C.
NFI’s ability to synthesize science, policy, and business needs positions it as the most trusted and influential seafood trade association in the U.S.
Financials
As a non-profit organization, NFI’s financial data are filed with the IRS (Form 990). According to the latest available filings:
- Annual revenue: Over $4.2 million USD (primarily from membership dues, program sponsorships, and events)
- Total assets: Over $3 million USD
- Major expenditures include policy advocacy, educational outreach, and member programs
These figures demonstrate NFI’s financial stability and ongoing investment in member services and industry advancement.
Shipment Records
NFI does not conduct commercial shipments but plays a critical role in shaping the regulatory and trade environment for:
- Over 6 million metric tons of seafood imported into the U.S. annually
- Ensuring member compliance with U.S. import/export regulations
- Advocating for access to international seafood markets and reduction of non-tariff trade barriers
Its work directly impacts the efficiency and compliance of billions of dollars in seafood trade.
Target Market
NFI serves:
- Seafood producers and processors operating domestically and globally
- Importers/exporters and distributors navigating complex regulatory environments
- Retail and foodservice buyers demanding sustainable, safe seafood
- Policy-makers, scientists, and media engaging with seafood-related issues
Its initiatives also extend to consumers through nutrition education and transparency efforts.
Capabilities
- Member Network: Hundreds of companies representing over 75% of U.S. seafood consumption
- Policy Reach: Regular collaboration with Congress, NOAA, FDA, and trade agencies
- Events & Conferences: Hosts the Global Seafood Market Conference and annual policy briefings
- Digital Platforms: Maintains AboutSeafood.com and multiple educational channels
NFI serves as both an advocate and a convenor, enabling collective action and sectoral leadership.
Certifications & Compliance
While NFI does not certify products, it supports and aligns with:
- Marine Stewardship Council (MSC)
- Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC)
- Best Aquaculture Practices (BAP)
- FDA and NOAA seafood inspection and compliance standards
NFI actively contributes to the development and promotion of voluntary certification and labeling systems.
Customer Testimonials
“NFI is the most informed and effective voice for the U.S. seafood industry. Their work on Capitol Hill and in the public health space is unmatched.”
— CEO, Major Seafood Importer (U.S.)
“The Future Leaders Program helped our team build connections and navigate the regulatory complexities of seafood trade.”
— Operations Director, National Food Distributor
Major Achievements
- Launched the Seafood Nutrition Partnership, reaching millions with heart-health education
- Influential in shaping the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, advocating seafood inclusion
- Instrumental in opposing excessive tariffs and promoting free seafood trade agreements
- Regular contributor to FDA advisory panels on seafood safety and methylmercury policy
- Hosts the Global Seafood Market Conference (GSMC), the premier data-driven seafood business event in the U.S.
With its unmatched blend of policy expertise, scientific credibility, and industry leadership, the National Fisheries Institute continues to advance a resilient, responsible, and thriving seafood industry in the United States.