EU Court annuls fisheries agreement with Morocco

The decision is expected to have significant implications for the future of EU fleet operations and investments in the region, according to EU fishing body Europêche.

In a statement, Europêche noted that the EU-Morocco agreements have played a crucial role in ensuring the sustainable, science-based management of fish stocks, and that these fisheries have been vital in supplying millions of healthy, affordable meals daily to regions with the greatest need.

It said that while it respects the court’s decision, the sector is deeply disappointed that this ruling halts effectively managed fishing operations that meet EU sustainability standards in this key part of West African waters. 

Losing access to such essential fishing grounds is very worrisome for the sector, especially giving the shrinking fishing opportunities and diminishing fishing grounds accessible to the EU fleet, it said.

Europêche President Javier Garat said: “The current EU-Morocco Fisheries Agreement has contributed to improve the sustainable management of fish resources in these rich fishing grounds and was crucial for the activity of up to 128 European vessels, 700 fishermen and 3,500 workers ashore. Now that the agreement is annulled, several scenarios must be contemplated, including fishing operations under direct authorisations.” 

Garat added that Europêche is ready to work with all parties involved so that business and fisheries cooperation between Morocco and the EU can continue in the future.

Europêche Vice-President Tim Heddema said the organisation’s priority remains the responsible and sustainable provision of fish, ensuring healthy, affordable meals continue to reach global markets. 

“The EU-Mauritania Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement will now be an even more important alternative for EU pelagic fishing, but only if it becomes commercially viable. For example, a rapid recovery of stocks overfished by non-EU fleets will be key to a return of more EU operators to Mauritanian waters. This requires appropriate action by the Mauritanian government. It is good news that first steps are taken on the basis of a new management plan,” he said.