Historic Win for Marine Mammals in Mexico
On June 25, the Mexican Chamber of Deputies gave final approval to a groundbreaking legal reform that bans the reproduction of marine mammals in captivity, prohibits their confinement in concrete tanks, and ends physical contact in “swim-with-dolphins” attractions.
The reform, already passed by the Senate, amends several articles of the General Wildlife Law (Articles 47 Bis 4, 60 Bis, 122, and 127), marking a historic milestone in the protection of marine mammals across Mexico.
“We celebrate this progressive policy recognizing animal sentience. Lawmakers explicitly acknowledged the suffering and exploitation of marine mammals, and humanity’s duty to forge a new ethical relationship with other species. This goes beyond marine mammals — it sets a precedent for how we treat all animals.”
~ Dr. Yolanda Alaniz Pasini, Marine Mammal Conservation Consultant, COMARINO
🐬 Key Provisions of the Reform
Concrete tanks banned: Dolphins and other marine mammals must be relocated to sea pens within 18 months.
End to captive breeding: Breeding is prohibited, except for endangered species under clear conservation protocols.
Stricter rules for human-animal contact: Sensitive areas cannot be touched. Only supervised dives or side-by-side swimming are permitted.
National inventory required: Facilities must provide full records (species, age, microchip, dorsal fin photo ID, etc.) to Mexico’s Ministry of Environment within 90 days.
Severe penalties: Violators face fines of up to 75,000 UMA (Mexican Unit of Measurement and Update).
Immediate enforcement: Law takes effect the day after publication in the Official Gazette.
Mandatory management plans: Wildlife units (UMAs and PIMVS) must submit updated plans in line with the new law or risk permanent permit revocation.
🌍 Why This Matters
Mexico now joins a global movement rejecting the use of marine mammals for entertainment. Scientific evidence shows that captivity harms dolphins and whales physically and psychologically, making such practices ethically indefensible.
“Today marks a historic moment. After years of advocacy, legislation now protects marine mammals, thanks to a consensus among environmental authorities, civil society, academia, and even industry. This is a step forward in a global transition away from animal abuse.”
~ Mariel Tejeda, Director of Empty the Tanks Mexico
📝 Next Steps
The Executive Branch must update the Regulation of the General Wildlife Law within 180 days.
Protocols will be created to safely and ethically transfer captive animals into appropriate marine sea pens.
This reform is a major win for marine mammals and a sign that public advocacy and scientific evidence can drive lasting change.
Thanks to Empty the Tanks Mexico for providing valuable information used in this report.
📚 Learn more: Explore resources on dolphin captivity and discover how you can help protect marine life.
Until next time,
The Green Scoop Team