Maine Lobstering Union Local 207 Executive Liaison and Political Director Virginia Olsen spoke before the U.S. Trade Representative, calling for action to address what she described as unfair aspects of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) that put Maine lobstermen at a disadvantage.
Olsen outlined how American lobstermen face stricter conservation, gear, and environmental rules compared to their Canadian counterparts. She said these regulations are followed closely by local fishermen who want to maintain the fishery for future generations.
She pointed out that the disparities are most apparent in the Gray Zone, a 277-square-mile disputed area near Machias Seal Island and North Rock in the Gulf of Maine. In this region, both American and Canadian fishermen work side by side, but according to Olsen, enforcement is much tougher on Americans than Canadians. She also noted that Canada’s decision in 2002 to allow summer lobster fishing in this area has increased strain on resources and caused conflict between fishermen from both countries.
Olsen addressed concerns about Country of Origin Labeling as well. She said that around 80% of lobster caught in Maine is sent to Canada for processing. Without clear labeling requirements, consumers cannot easily tell where their lobster was caught or processed, which can diminish the reputation of Maine’s product.
In her remarks, Olsen asked federal officials to set up a bilateral committee including fishermen, dealers, processors, scientists, and regulators from both nations. She argued that “the current Canada–U.S. Steering Committee lacks representation from harvesters and does not reflect the lived experiences of fishermen, who face these challenges firsthand every day on the water.”
“Our fishermen uphold some of the strongest conservation standards in the world, but they cannot continue to operate on an uneven playing field,” said Olsen. “To protect this fishery and the communities that depend on it, we need fairness, transparency, and a process that includes the people who know the resource best.”
IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President David Sullivan added: “For generations, Maine’s lobstermen have cared for this resource and built a world-class fishery through skill, sacrifice, and stewardship. The USMCA must work for working families, not against them. The IAM Union will continue fighting to ensure our fishermen compete on equal terms and that their livelihoods are protected.”
The Maine Lobstering Union stated its ongoing commitment to advocating for policies supporting Maine’s fishing heritage while protecting jobs in coastal communities.
The union operates as part of District 4 within the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), serving as a cooperative owned by local lobstermen focused on sustainability efforts across Maine’s lobster industry.
