The government of Andalusia, Spain, has raised concerns about the potential immobilization of 60 European fishing vessels operating in Mauritanian waters as the protocol to the EU-Mauritania fisheries agreement nears expiration on November 14. Without a new agreement or transitional measures, these vessels will lose their fishing licenses on November 15. This development poses significant risks to the livelihoods of people employed in the fishing industry.
A total of 25 affected vessels are based in Andalusian ports. According to Ramón Fernández-Pacheco, Andalusia's agriculture, fisheries, and rural development advisor, the cessation of fishing activities would have severe socio-economic repercussions, threatening approximately 500 direct and indirect jobs. The impact would extend beyond the crew members to affect commercial and logistical activities dependent on ports in Cadiz, Algeciras, Seville, and Huelva.
The current protocol, which came into effect on November 15, 2021, and is set to expire soon, allows European vessels to fish in Mauritanian waters under strict quotas and technical conditions in exchange for an annual European financial contribution of €60.8 million. Fernández-Pacheco urged the Spanish government and the European Commission to take urgent action to prevent a disruption in fishing activities.
The potential halt to fishing activities has sparked concerns about food security and the economic stability of communities reliant on the fishing industry. The Andalusian government is advocating for a provisional application of a new protocol or the adoption of emergency transitional measures to ensure continuity for the affected fleet.
Fernández-Pacheco emphasized that the consequences of inaction would be far-reaching, affecting not only the fishing sector but also the broader economy. He called for swift action from the relevant authorities to mitigate the impact on the industry and the people employed in it.
The situation is being closely monitored by the Andalusian government, which is working to raise awareness about the potential consequences of the protocol's expiration. The expiration of the protocol without a new agreement or transitional measures would have significant implications for the EU-Mauritania fisheries agreement and the communities that depend on it.
The European Union and Mauritania have a long-standing agreement aimed at promoting sustainable fishing practices and providing economic benefits to both parties. The current situation highlights the need for continued cooperation and dialogue to ensure the agreement's continued effectiveness and the well-being of those who depend on it.
Key points
- Expiration of EU-Mauritania fisheries protocol may lead to halt of 60 European fishing vessels.
