The European Union and the Cook Islands have formalized a new protocol to their sustainable fisheries partnership agreement, which will be effective from 2025 until 2032. This significant agreement grants the EU fleet access to some of the richest tuna stocks in the Pacific Ocean, allowing for 40 fishing days annually.
As part of this partnership, the EU will contribute a total of €3.22 million (approximately US$3.74 million) over the seven-year duration, translating to about €460,000 (US$534,000) each year. Of this annual contribution, €295,000 (US$343,000) is earmarked specifically for enhancing the sustainable management capabilities, control, and surveillance of Cook Islands fisheries as well as promoting the blue economy. Additionally, EU shipowners will provide €90,000 for authorization to fish within Cook Islands waters for ten of those fishing days.
This protocol underscores the commitment of both the European Union and the Cook Islands to sustainable fisheries and mutual economic development, emphasizing a strategy that balances environmental sustainability with economic viability. As active members of the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC), both parties aim to ensure that fishing activities are conducted in a manner that respects the needs of the ecosystem while offering significant opportunities for the EU fleet.
Costas Kadis, the EU Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans, praised the partnership, stating that their agreements set a global standard for fisheries governance. He expressed satisfaction in continuing the collaboration, which will allow EU vessels to fish in one of the healthiest tropical tuna stock areas. The partnership is designed to bolster the development of the Cook Islands’ fisheries sector and its broader blue economy.
The new protocol, once signed, will provisionally apply from December 9, 2025, allowing EU vessels to commence fishing in the Cook Islands’ waters. It will fully come into effect upon completion of the ratification process, which includes approval from the European Parliament.
This collaboration is part of a broader network of tuna fisheries agreements that the EU maintains with various countries in the region, aimed at enhancing food security and ensuring an adequate supply for consumers. The original fisheries partnership agreement, established in 2016, will be succeeded by this new protocol, which is designed to foster continued sustainable operations in the fishing sector after the expiration of the previous agreement in December 2024.