The European Union and Morocco agreed on a four year fishery deal in December 2013, but its entry into force was pending ratification by Morocco.
This deal opens the door for EU vessels to fish again in Moroccan waters after a pause of more than two years, and this in return for financial assistance by the EU to help develop the fishery sector in Morocco.
This new agreement is the second most important of its kind and places a strong emphasis on environmental stability, economic profitability and international legality. EU Fisheries Commissioner described this new protocol as an example of responsible international fisheries governance because it was designed in such a way to ensure that the EU’s fishing rights do not exceed the scientifically sound limit that ensures sustainable fisheries, and that European vessels do not compete with local fishermen. She also added that the EU’s financial support will help “build a sustainable future for Moroccan fisheries through the targeted sectorial support.”
The cost for the EU taxpayer has decreased by 30% compared to the former protocol. The total cost to the EU will be €30 million a year, of which €16 million compensates Morocco for access to the resource and €14 million is directed towards supporting the fisheries sector in the country. Also, the ship owners’ contribution is estimated at €10 million, increasing the total financial envelope for Morocco to €40 million. The new protocol will also create more job opportunities for Moroccan fishermen. A human rights clause is included in the protocol.
11 countries from the European Union are concerned with this newly implemented protocol for a total of 120 vessels. The countries are Spain, Portugal, Italy, France, Germany, Lithuania, Latvia, Netherlands, Ireland, Poland and United Kingdom. The fishing possibilities have been increased by a third compared to the previous protocol. Six fishing categories are covered by the new protocol.
The Moroccan Times.
