The Kitsap Sun reported on the recent in-person meeting between U.S.’s National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and Chinese officials about China’s ban of  geoduck imported from the United States’ West Coast.

While China was satisfied with testing for paralytic shellfish poisoning, the biggest issue was testing for arsenic, the Kitsap Sun reported. The United States does not routinely test for arsenic but NOAA officials said it will work with state and federal agencies and tribes to develop a protocol for testing and sampling that meets China’s health standards.

Pacific Northwest tribes have been affected by this ban since it was put into place in December. From the story:

Tony Forsman, who is involved in shellfish harvesting for the Suquamish Tribe, said it appears that Chinese officials have clearly spelled out what they want — “and it has nothing to do with politics or trade disputes.” Meeting the Chinese requirements should be straightforward, he said.

The Suquamish Tribe, which hires geoduck divers to harvest the clams, was able to market the tribe’s entire geoduck quota by exporting to countries other than China. Although future prices could be a factor, Forsman said he expects the tribe to continue selling all the geoducks it can harvest.

Other tribes also reported finding new markets for geoducks.

Since a new annual quota begins on April 1, tribal divers are expected to return to the water on Tuesday after many have been on break at the end of the harvest year.

The rest of the story can be found here (subscription may be required).