Madeira has launched a pilot programme with Satlink to introduce digital monitoring across its fishing fleet, positioning the region ahead of upcoming EU electronic monitoring deadlines.
The initiative, led by the Regional Secretariat for Agriculture and Fisheries of Madeira, makes the archipelago the first Portuguese region to anticipate the 2028 Electronic Monitoring requirements.
“This project represents a concrete step in strengthening data collection, transparency and cooperation with the fishing sector,” said Sónia Pereira, Regional Director of Fisheries at the Regional Secretariat for Agriculture and Fisheries of Madeira.
Improving sustainability
Delivered in partnership with Satlink, the project aims to strengthen digital monitoring, improve fishing traceability and support long-term fishing sustainability.
Financed under Portugal’s Recovery and Resilience Plan, the pilot covers ten vessels and combines onboard technology with secure, cloud-based data analysis.
The Electronic Monitoring Systems integrate onboard cameras, sensors and positioning tools to document fishing activity, identify species, estimate catches and georeference operations.
Data and video footage are transmitted via mobile connectivity to Horus, Satlink’s cloud-based platform, where information is reviewed and analysed to deliver robust fishing traceability.
To address privacy concerns, automated face-blurring using edge computing is carried out onboard, ensuring crew anonymity while retaining analytical value.
The project supports fisheries targeting small pelagics, black scabbardfish, tunas and swordfish, including associated by-catches. It contributes to Portugal’s National Data Collection Plan and follows scientific and management guidance from ICES and ICCAT.
With installations underway since late November, the rollout demonstrates how early adoption of digital monitoring can enhance fishing sustainability while preparing fleets for future regulatory frameworks.
