Key Impact Points:
- New rules clarify what constitutes “non-cooperative” behavior by third countries in fisheries management.
- The EU can impose trade restrictions, including import bans, if non-EU nations fail to adopt sustainable practices.
- A 90-day response deadline is set for non-EU countries to address EU notifications of unsustainable fishing.
EU Moves to Safeguard Shared Fish Stocks
The Council of the EU and European Parliament have struck a provisional deal to revise Regulation (EU) 1026/2012, strengthening the bloc’s ability to tackle non-sustainable fishing practices by third countries. The new rules aim to secure long-term sustainability of fish stocks shared with non-EU nations and ensure fair competition for European fishers.
“Today’s agreement gives us stronger tools to tackle non-sustainable fishing practices allowed by third countries and to encourage responsible fishing. Our message is clear: we are determined to safeguard the long-term sustainability of shared fish stocks and protect European fishers from unfair competition,” said Jacek Czerniak, Polish State Secretary for Agriculture and Rural Development.
Clearer Rules, Stronger Enforcement
The revised framework introduces more transparent criteria for identifying third countries that allow or enable harmful fishing practices. Key updates include:
- A clarified definition of “failure to cooperate” in joint fisheries management.
- A list of non-cooperative actions, such as exclusion from consultations or failure to enforce necessary control measures.
- Penalties for countries imposing discriminatory quotas or actions that degrade fish stocks.
If a country acts outside established international cooperation structures—such as Regional Fisheries Management Organisations (RFMOs)—and jeopardizes fish stocks, the EU may now respond more decisively.
Commitment to International Cooperation
The updated rules emphasize diplomacy and engagement. The EU will maintain dialogue with non-EU countries and consult relevant RFMOs before resorting to restrictions.
A 90-day deadline has been introduced for third countries to respond to EU notifications before measures, such as trade restrictions, are considered.
Oversight and Next Steps
The European Commission will be required to keep both the Council and Parliament informed when identifying uncooperative countries or enforcing restrictions.
The deal is pending final approval from both institutions before it becomes law.
Background
Since 2012, EU regulation has allowed the imposition of restrictions, including import bans, on third countries that permit unsustainable fishing. This revision aims to clarify and strengthen that mechanism in the face of rising global pressure on marine ecosystems.
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