Spanish Minister of Fisheries, Luis Planas, has assured that he will defend fishing quotas that ensure the viability and profitability of the fleet
Spanish Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food, Luis Planas, has pledged to advocate for fishing quotas that ensure the sustainability and profitability of Spain’s fishing fleet at the upcoming European Union Council of Ministers meeting in Brussels.
The decision will significantly impact Spain’s coastal rural economies, which rely heavily on the fishing industry.
Planas presided over virtual advisory councils with representatives from Spain’s autonomous communities to discuss the priorities for the EU Agriculture and Fisheries Council, which will take place on 9 and 10 December. Key topics include the establishment of Total Allowable Catches (TAC) and quotas for 2025 and 2026, particularly in the Atlantic, where negotiations with the United Kingdom and Norway remain ongoing.
Focus on Economic and Social Impact of Quotas
Highlighting the complexity of ongoing negotiations, Planas emphasised the importance of considering the social and economic implications of quota allocations. “Spain will insist on a balanced approach that safeguards both marine ecosystems and the livelihoods of our fishing communities,” said the minister.
Call for Mediterranean Moratorium
Discussions will also address fishing in the Mediterranean, where Spain, France, and Italy have jointly requested a moratorium on new management measures for 2025. Planas criticised the European Commission’s “disappointing” proposals, which he claims fail to recognise the efforts made by the fishing sector over the past five years. “These measures threaten the viability of the trawling fleet,” he added.
Positive Developments in Atlantic Fisheries
Planas noted recent successes in negotiations for the Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Organisation (NAFO). For the first time in 32 years, Spain’s Galician fleet will resume fishing in international waters off the Grand Banks of Newfoundland, marking the end of a long-standing moratorium. Similarly, improvements in quotas for Atlantic tuna under the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) were hailed as a positive step.
Advancing Genomic Technologies for Agriculture
The EU Council will also discuss regulations for plants developed through New Genomic Techniques (NGT). Planas stressed Spain’s commitment to reaching an agreement that facilitates market access for these crops, particularly those deemed equivalent to conventionally bred varieties. “NGT presents an opportunity to develop climate-resilient crops, essential as we face increasingly extreme weather conditions,” he noted.
Embracing Circular Bioeconomy Strategies
The Hungarian presidency will present opportunities for bioeconomy development in the agricultural sector. Planas underscored the need for a circular bioeconomy strategy to enhance food security and foster a more efficient and competitive agri-food sector.
Broader Regulatory Discussions
Additional agenda items include:
- Regulations on the production and marketing of plant reproductive material.
- Animal welfare standards during transportation.
- Veterinary concerns, particularly vaccine development.
- Progress on resilient European forest regulations.
Collaborative Approach to Sustainability
Planas reaffirmed Spain’s commitment to aligning economic and environmental goals in fisheries and agriculture. By prioritising sustainable practices and innovative technologies, Spain aims to position itself as a leader in addressing both current challenges and future opportunities within the EU.
Source: Press Release