24-06-2025
The EU-Mauritania fisheries deal explained
Fishing is a cornerstone of Mauritania's economy and daily life, accounting for about 10% of the country's GDP, and providing work for roughly 300,000 people - either directly or indirectly. For many Mauritanians, fish is the main source of protein, making the sector crucial for both livelihoods and food security.
The Sustainable Fishery Partnership Agreement (SFPA) between the European Union and Mauritania, renewed in 2021 for six years, sets the terms for European vessels operating in Mauritanian waters. The deal is designed to address overfishing and protect marine resources, while also supporting Mauritania's economy.
The EU's Ambassador to Mauritania, Joaquin Tasso Vilallonga, spoke to 'Ocean' at the new IMROP research centre in Nouakchott, funded by the EU. He described fishing as 'a very important sector of the Mauritanian economy,' highlighting its role as a major employer and key source of nutrition. He stressed that the partnership's main goal is to ensure Mauritania's rich fish stocks are managed sustainably: 'That means, firstly, it continues to provide food and nutrition for the country; secondly, it allows Mauritania to export a resource and earn income; and finally, it respects the ability of these fish stocks to reproduce and be maintained, guaranteeing sustainable use and respect for the marine environment'.
Key points of the agreement include:
Science-based quotas: EU vessels are only allowed to catch surplus stocks, as determined by joint scientific assessments. If scientists advise that a species is at risk, fishing for that species is halted.
Financial contributions: The EU pays Mauritania €57.5 million annually, with an additional €3.3 million earmarked for supporting local fishing communities, research, and infrastructure.
Food security: Part of the catch — specifically, 2% of pelagic fish — is allocated for local food security and distributed in the local communities, helping to ensure Mauritanians have access to affordable protein.
Transparency measures: The agreement requires all foreign fishing contracts to be made public, aiming to ensure fairness, and to combat illegal fishing.
The EU-Mauritania SFPA is seen as an effort to balance economic interests with environmental protection. By tying access to scientific advice, and investing in local infrastructure, the agreement aims to ensure that both Mauritania's fishing industry and its marine ecosystems remain healthy for generations to come.
