EU and Gabon end fishing pact as 2026 protocol expires

The fishing protocol linking Gabon and the European Union officially expired on 28 June 2026. The agreement, first signed in 2007 and renewed in 2021, allowed EU vessels—mainly Spanish and French—to fish in Gabon's waters for an estimated €26 million. Gabon’s transition government, led by General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, denounced the pact as “deeply unbalanced”, citing insufficient financial compensation, high management costs and a lack of local value‑addition or industrialisation.

The EU, through its representation in Libreville, confirmed the orderly end of the current arrangement and signalled readiness to negotiate a “new generation” partnership focused on sustainable fisheries, transparency and balanced benefits. An EU spokesperson said, “Our approach is turned towards the future: preserve what works, address obstacles pragmatically and build a renewed, balanced and effective framework.” Negotiations are expected to begin promptly to replace the expired protocol.

Both parties stressed the need for continued dialogue to safeguard the blue economy while addressing Gabon’s concerns over sovereignty and economic return.