European Parliament Approves Renewed Fishing Deal with Cape Verde

EU Parliament Ratifies Five-Year Fisheries Protocol

The European Parliament has officially approved a renewed tuna fishing agreement with Cape Verde, granting 56 EU vessels from Spain, France, and Portugal the right to fish in the country's waters for the next five years. The agreement, which has been in provisional application since July 23, 2024, received broad support during the parliamentary vote, with 507 votes in favour, 76 against, and 16 abstentions.

The protocol aims to foster sustainable fisheries, enhance socio-economic development in Cape Verde, and strengthen efforts against illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing in the region.

Key Provisions and Financial Contributions

Under the terms of the agreement, EU vessels will be permitted to catch up to 7,000 tonnes of tuna and related species annually until 2029. The fleet comprises 24 freezer tuna seiners, 10 pole-and-line tuna vessels, and 22 surface longliners.

In return, the European Union will provide Cape Verde with an annual financial contribution of €780,000. Of this sum, €350,000 is allocated for access rights, while €430,000 is dedicated to supporting Cape Verde's fisheries policy and blue economy initiatives. Additionally, fishing fees paid by vessel owners could generate up to an extra €600,000 annually for Cape Verde.

Objectives and Enhanced Cooperation

The agreement is designed to promote economic resilience and development within Cape Verde's fishing industry. EU investments are intended to support local fisheries infrastructure, provide training, and create jobs, with a particular focus on improving working conditions and scientific capabilities.

Rapporteur Paulo do Nascimento Cabral (EPP, PT) highlighted the balanced nature of the deal, stating, 'This agreement combines remuneration for fishing opportunities with support for the sustainable development of Cabo Verde's fishing sector. It promotes decent working conditions and strengthens scientific capabilities while protecting fishermen and ensuring the sustainability of our oceans.'

The protocol also includes measures to improve vessel monitoring, regulate fishing authorisations, and implement management strategies for both tuna and shark stocks, aligning with the rules of the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT).

Historical Context

This renewed agreement is part of the EU's broader network of fisheries agreements with West African coastal states. The initial agreement between the EU and Cape Verde was established in 1990, replaced in 2007, and has been renewed every five years since, providing a continuous framework for cooperation in the fisheries sector.