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DRAFT OPINION (11609/2025 – C100246/2025 – 2025/0202(NLE))

On the proposal for a Council decision on the conclusion, on behalf of the Union, of the Protocol on the implementation of the Fisheries Partnership Agreement between the Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe and the European Community (2025–2029)

DEVE-PA-781328

Committee on Development · Rapporteur: Małgorzata Gosiewska

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The draft opinion recommends Parliament's consent to the EU–São Tomé and Príncipe fisheries Protocol (2025–2029), which sets conditions for EU fishing and supports sustainable development. It provides €3.3 million over four years, caps EU vessels at 35, and funds sector support for fisheries management, science, and value chains.

Committee position. The rapporteur recommends that the European Parliament gives its consent to the new Protocol, as it is well-balanced and supports sustainable fisheries.

Key points

  1. The Protocol covers 2025–2029, granting fishing opportunities to EU vessels from Spain, Portugal and France within the limits of available surplus.
  2. It reinforces ocean governance, ensures better working conditions for fishers on EU vessels, and commits to respecting ILO and IMO standards.
  3. A sector support programme focuses on monitoring and control to deter IUU fishing, scientific stock assessment, and improving value chains with support for women and youth.
  4. Total financial commitment is EUR 3.3 million over four years: EUR 500,000 annually for sectoral policy support and EUR 325,000 annually for access, with a reference tonnage of 6,500 tonnes per year.
  5. EU vessel operators pay fees, including a minimum annual fee per vessel and EUR 85 per tonne caught.
  6. The Committee on Development calls on the Committee on Fisheries to recommend approval of the draft Council decision.

Who is affected

  • EU fishing vessels from Spain, Portugal and France operating in São Tomé and Príncipe's EEZ.
  • São Tomé and Príncipe's fisheries sector, including coastal communities, fishers, and fish traders.

Figures and deadlines

  • EUR 3.3 million total financial commitment over four years.
  • EUR 825,000 annually.
  • 35 EU fishing vessels cap.
  • EUR 500,000 per year for sectoral fisheries policy support.
  • EUR 325,000 per year for access.
  • 6,500 tonnes per year reference tonnage.
  • EUR 85 per tonne caught as vessel operator fee.