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OPINION (13158/2025 – C100346/2025 – 2025/0287(NLE))

On the conclusion, on behalf of the Union, of the Protocol on the implementation of the Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement between the European Union and the Government of the Cook Islands (2025-2032)

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Committee on Development · Rapporteur: Charles Goerens

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The Committee on Development recommends approving the Protocol implementing the Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement between the EU and the Cook Islands (2025–2032), which grants EU vessels 40 fishing days per year in exchange for financial compensation. It calls for enhanced local capacity and timely updates on the sectoral support programme to ensure balanced outcomes.

Committee position. The Committee on Development recommends that Parliament give its consent to the new Protocol, and invites the Commission to enhance local capacity and provide timely updates on sectoral support implementation.

Key points

  1. The Protocol grants EU vessels 40 fishing days per year in Cook Islands' waters, with conditions on licensing, fees, and compliance with ILO and IMO standards.
  2. Total financial commitment is EUR 3.22 million over seven years: EUR 295,000 annually for sustainable fisheries support and EUR 165,000 for access, plus vessel operator fees.
  3. The EU and Cook Islands will cooperate on monitoring, information exchange, and responsible fisheries management in regional and international bodies.
  4. A sectoral support programme aims to promote responsible fishing, conservation, food security, employment, and economic development, complementing the national budget for the Ministry of Marine Resources.
  5. The previous protocol's sectoral support was delayed due to COVID-19 and staffing issues at the Ministry of Marine Resources.
  6. The Committee on Development calls on the Committee on Fisheries to recommend approval of the draft Council decision.

Who is affected

  • EU vessel operators: gain fishing opportunities but must comply with licensing and fee conditions.
  • Cook Islands: receives financial support for sustainable fisheries and access fees.
  • Ministry of Marine Resources: benefits from sectoral support but faces implementation challenges.

Figures and deadlines

  • 40 fishing days per year
  • EUR 3.22 million over seven years
  • EUR 460,000 annually
  • EUR 295,000 annually for sectoral support
  • EUR 165,000 annually for access