EU-Mauritania fishing agreement expiration threatens Spanish fleets

The upcoming expiration of the fishing agreement between the European Union and Mauritania on November 14 is causing concern across the Spanish fishing sector. Negotiations for a renewal remain stalled, leading stakeholders to call on the European Commission for an urgent intervention or at least a one-year extension to maintain access to these waters.

The impact of the potential deadlock varies by region. In the Canary Islands, there is significant apprehension due to the lack of alternative fishing grounds. The agreement is vital for the local cephalopod and pelagic fleets, as well as the logistical operations centered around the ports of Las Palmas and La Luz.

In contrast, the fishing industry in Vigo appears more insulated from the direct expiration of the EU-Mauritania protocol. Many Vigo-based companies, such as Iberconsa and Pescapuerta, have transitioned to operating through mixed companies. By investing in Mauritanian-flagged vessels and local entities, these companies operate under local regulations rather than the EU bilateral agreement, allowing them to continue harvesting cephalopods like squid and octopus.