EU introduces new tools to tackle unsustainable fishing by third-countries

In their report on a Commission proposal updating fish stock conservation measures relating to non-EU countries, adopted unanimously, Fisheries Committee MEPs have backed procedures designed to identify countries that allow non-sustainable fishing.

This would be the case, for example for a country that “fails to comply with agreements, by not taking effective or timely action” against nationals or flagged vessels suspected of carrying out illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing. The aim is to improve legal certainty in this area.

Fisheries Committee MEPs also clarified which behaviours would define a non-EU country as “failing to cooperate”. These include adopting “unjustified unilateral measures or quotas not in line with those agreed bilaterally or multilaterally”, and a “lack of transparency in consultations” with other coastal states or parties, including within regional fisheries management organisations (RFMOs).

A country applying discriminatory measures affecting other countries’ fleets, while exempting its own, resulting in overfishing, would also be seen as failing to cooperate.

The amendments to the regulation also detail procedures the Commission should follow before and after taking action against a non-EU country considered to be allowing non-sustainable fishing. This could include imposing import bans on certain fish.

“This is a clear and united call from the European Parliament: the EU must act decisively to protect our fishers in every sea basin. By standing together, we are defending Europe’s food sovereignty and sending a strong signal to third countries that non-sustainable fishing practices will not be tolerated. This is about protecting our environment, defending our coastal communities, and safeguarding our market”, said Rapporteur Thomas Bajada.

The Committee also voted to enter into interinstitutional negotiations, by unanimity as well (27 votes). This mandate will be confirmed during one of the next plenary sessions. The Council agreed its mandate in December 2024.

This proposal amends Regulation (EU) No 1026/2012 and the matter falls within the exclusive competence of the Union. The regulation’s sanctions have been applied only once, in 2013, against the Faroe Islands, and consisted of an EU import ban on herring and mackerel. The ban was lifted in 2014.