EC-Côte d’Ivoire Fisheries Partnership Agreement – Protocol on the implementation of the Agreement for 2025-2029

The European Parliament adopted by 520 votes to, 97 with 12 abstentions, a legislative resolution on the draft Council decision on the conclusion, on behalf of the Union, of the Protocol on the implementation of the Fisheries Partnership Agreement between the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire and the European Community (2025–2029).

Parliament gave its consent to the conclusion of the protocol.

The Protocol allocates an annual EU contribution of EUR 74 0000, comprising EUR 305 000 for access rights and EUR 435 000 for sectoral support. Additionally, operators will pay EUR 80 per tonne of catch in the first two years, increasing to EUR 85 per tonne in the final two years. The Protocol authorises 25 tuna purse seiners and 7 surface longliners to fish within Côte d’Ivoire’s Exclusive Economic Zone, with an annual reference catch limit of 6 100 tonnes of tuna.

Of the EUR 740 000 allocated annually under the agreement, EUR 435 000 is allocated as sectoral support, specifically earmarked for the development of Côte d’Ivoire’s fisheries infrastructure, governance capacities and scientific expertise. The sectoral support also targets improvements in scientific knowledge, management measures for small-scale fishing and aquaculture and community support through training.

Decisions on the precise allocation of these funds will be approved by a Joint Committee, ensuring transparency and alignment with strategic objectives. A portion of the funds is specifically dedicated to addressing IUU fishing, which contributes to establishing a level playing field for the EU fishers. Moreover, the Protocol promises job creation and improved economic opportunities for local communities through better fisheries management and enhanced infrastructure.