EC/Cape Verde Fisheries Partnership Agreement (2019-2024). Implementation Protocol
Protocol on the implementation of the Fisheries Partnership Agreement between the European Community and the Republic of Cape Verde (2019-2024).
The new Protocol provides fishing opportunities for EU vessels in Cape Verdean waters, based on the best available scientific advice and in compliance with the recommendations of the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT). It shall enable the European Union and the Republic of Cape Verde to work more closely together to promote the responsible exploitation of fisheries resources in Cape Verde's waters and to support Cape Verde's efforts to develop its blue economy, in the interest of both sides.
Fishing opportunities
The fishing opportunities granted to Union vessels shall be as follows:
- freezer tuna seiners: 28 vessels;
- pole-and-line tuna vessels: 14 vessels;
- surface longliners: 27 vessels.
Financial contribution
The total value of this Protocol is estimated at EUR 3 750 000.
The annual amount of the financial contribution is EUR 750 000, broken down as follows:
- an annual amount as financial compensation for access to resources of EUR 400 000 per year, equivalent to a reference tonnage of 8 000 tonnes per year;
- support for the development of the sectoral policy on fisheries and the blue economy of Cabo Verde for an amount of EUR 350 000 per year for the duration of the Protocol. This support meets the objectives of the national policy for the sustainable management of Cabo Verde's continental and marine fisheries resources for the duration of the Protocol.
Sectoral support
Sectoral support, under this Protocol, shall contribute to the implementation of the national strategy for fisheries and the blue economy. Its aim is the sustainable management of fisheries resources and the development of the sector by, in particular:
- strengthening the monitoring, control and surveillance of fisheries activities;
- strengthening scientific knowledge of fisheries resources;
- supporting coastal communities (fishing activities, training, employment, the safety of fishermen and economic development);
- strengthening international cooperation;
- supporting the blue economy and developing aquaculture.
The Parties must agree, within the Joint Committee provided for in the Agreement, no later than three months after the entry into force of the Protocol, on a multiannual sectoral programme and its implementing rules. Any proposed changes to the annual or multiannual sectoral programme shall be approved by the Joint Committee, where appropriate by exchange of letters.
The new Protocol covers a period of 5 years from the date of its provisional application, i.e. from the date of its signature.