On 9 July, the European Parliament approved new rules aimed at enhancing the identification of non-EU countries involved in unsustainable fishing practices concerning fish stocks shared with the EU. The resolution received significant support, with 681 votes in favour, four against, and four abstentions, thereby granting final approval for measures designed to promote sustainable fishing in neighbouring countries while ensuring equitable conditions for EU fisheries.
This amended regulation, informally agreed upon with EU member states, empowers the European Commission to assess more effectively whether non-EU countries are implementing necessary actions to prevent overfishing. It provides more explicit legal definitions regarding unsustainable practices that could lead the EU to enforce restrictive measures, including trade-related actions such as import bans, thereby strengthening the Union’s capacity to address non-sustainable practices globally.
“Fishers have for so long felt unheard in their concerns, and this proposal is our answer. We have delivered a stronger EU response to those who undermine our fishers and our marine resources,” rapporteur Thomas Bajada (S&D, MT) said.
Throughout the negotiation process, MEPs successfully established a more comprehensive and enforceable definition of “failure to cooperate” by non-EU countries. Specific instances now include undue delays in responding to requests, refusals to consult, failures to engage in consultations, or the imposition of discriminatory or unilateral quotas. Additionally, any failure to adopt, implement, or enforce essential fishery management measures—whether within regional fisheries management organisations (RFMOs) or by bilateral or multilateral agreements—will now be recognised as a failure to cooperate under EU law.
The new regulations also articulate what constitutes the “best available scientific advice” that non-EU countries are expected to adhere to when managing fish stocks utilised by both themselves and the EU. Furthermore, a 90-day deadline has been established for third countries to respond to their identification as non-cooperating entities. For stocks managed by an RFMO, the Commission will first attempt to resolve the matter within the organisation before further action.
Following the vote, it is essential to note that the Council must still formally confirm its agreement before the amended regulation can take effect, which will occur 20 days after its publication in the EU Official Journal.
