European Parliament approves renewed tuna fishing agreement with Cabo Verde

EUROPE – The European Parliament has officially approved a renewed tuna fishing agreement with Cabo Verde, granting 56 EU vessels from Spain, France, and Portugal the right to fish in the country’s waters for five years. 

The agreement seeks to balance economic benefits with sustainability, ensuring responsible fishing practices while supporting Cabo Verde’s fisheries sector.

Under the terms of the deal, EU vessels will be permitted to catch up to 7,000 tonnes of tuna and related species annually. 

In return, Cabo Verde will receive €780,000 (US$817,233) per year from the EU. Of this sum, €350,000 (US$366,707) is earmarked for access rights, while €430,000 (US$450,526) will be dedicated to supporting the country’s fisheries policy and blue economy initiatives. 

Additionally, vessel owners’ fishing fees could generate up to €600,000 (US$628,641) annually, further bolstering Cabo Verde’s fishing sector.

“This agreement combines remuneration for fishing opportunities with support for the sustainable development of Cabo Verde’s fishing sector,” said rapporteur Paulo do Nascimento Cabral (EPP, PT). “It promotes decent working conditions and strengthens scientific capabilities while protecting fishermen and ensuring the sustainability of our oceans.”

Enhanced cooperation and sustainability

A key component of the agreement is its commitment to sustainability and enhanced fisheries management. Measures include stricter vessel monitoring, regulated fishing authorisations, and strategic tuna and shark stocks management. 

The protocol aligns with guidelines set by the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT), ensuring that fishing practices adhere to conservation standards.

“The agreement respects EU rules on resource conservation, environmental sustainability, and human rights,” added Cabral. “It provides a crucial framework for our fleet to operate responsibly in the Atlantic Ocean.”

Provisionally implemented on July 23, 2024, the agreement is expected to strengthen Cabo Verde’s capacity to manage its fisheries resources effectively. 

It also promotes collaboration between the EU and Cabo Verde in scientific research and sustainable fisheries development.

Beyond environmental considerations, the agreement aims to foster economic resilience in Cabo Verde’s fishing industry. EU investments will support local fisheries infrastructure, provide training opportunities, and create jobs, strongly emphasising improving working conditions and scientific expertise.

“This is a good agreement that protects both EU and Cabo Verdean fishermen, supports local communities and contributes to ocean sustainability,” Cabral noted during the plenary session.

The agreement received broad support in the European Parliament, with the Committee on Fisheries endorsing it with 22 votes in favour and only four against. 

In the full parliamentary vote, the protocol was approved by a wide margin of 507 votes to 76, with 16 abstentions.

The renewed agreement marks a significant step in the EU’s approach to balancing economic growth with responsible fisheries management. 

It will remain in effect until 2029, providing stability for EU fishing operations and Cabo Verde’s coastal economy.

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