DRAFT 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)
DEVE-PA-781337
Committee on Development · Rapporteur: Charles Goerens
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The Committee on Development recommends that Parliament approve 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 and supports sustainable fisheries.¶¶¶
Committee position. The Committee on Development recommends that the Committee on Fisheries approve the draft Council decision on the Protocol.¶
Key points
- The Protocol grants EU vessels 40 fishing days per year in Cook Islands' fishing areas, with conditions on licensing, fees, and compliance with ILO and IMO working conditions.¶
- The EU will pay EUR 460,000 annually over seven years: EUR 295,000 for sectoral support and EUR 165,000 for access, with additional fees from vessel operators.¶
- The EU and Cook Islands will cooperate on monitoring, information exchange, and promoting responsible fisheries management in regional and international bodies.¶
- A sectoral support programme aims to promote responsible fishing, conserve resources, and strengthen the fisheries sector's contribution to food security, employment, and economic development.¶
- The previous protocol's sectoral support was delayed due to COVID-19 travel restrictions and staffing difficulties in the Ministry of Marine Resources.¶
- The rapporteur recommends consent but asks the Commission to enhance local capacity and provide timely updates on sectoral support implementation.¶
Who is affected
- EU vessel operators: gain fishing access but must comply with conditions and pay fees.¶¶
- Cook Islands' Ministry of Marine Resources: receives sectoral support funding and is expected to implement the programme.¶¶
- Cook Islands' fishing communities: benefit from sustainable fisheries management and economic development.¶