Mauritius and EU Boost Efforts: 2024 Fisheries Progress in Review

Mauritius is stepping up its efforts to promote sustainable fishing through ongoing talks with the European Union. Currently, discussions are taking place between the EU’s Directorate-General for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (EU-DG MARE) and Mauritius’s Ministry of Agro-Industry, Food Security, Blue Economy, and Fisheries.

The meetings, held in Port Louis from July 7 to 11, aim to review progress since the EU’s recommendations issued in February 2024.

During this period, Mauritius reaffirmed its commitment to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing.

Minister Arvin Boolell emphasized the country’s dedication to fulfilling its international obligations under various fishing agreements.

A key development is the introduction of the Fisheries Act 2023, which provides a legal framework for sustainable and effective fisheries management.

Since the last EU mission, Mauritius has implemented several reforms, including regulations on Vessel Monitoring Systems (VMS) and Automatic Identification Systems (AIS).

New rules have also been finalized for tracking, control, surveillance, managing bycatch, and conservation measures aligned with standards set by Regional Fisheries Management Organizations.

Efforts to harmonize operational procedures and licensing under the Fisheries Act 2023 are progressing, with agencies beginning to deploy new systems.

A Fisheries Information System has been developed to give authorities real-time access to consolidated data, and a traceability plan has been launched to enable regular audits in processing plants.

Regional and international cooperation remains vital. Mauritius is strengthening its partnerships by verifying catch certificates and authenticating licenses with flag, coastal, and port states.

Domestically, coordination between the National Coast Guard and the Ministry has increased to facilitate joint surveillance and information sharing.

The fight against IUU fishing is crucial for protecting local livelihoods and ensuring long-term sustainability.

Mauritius emphasized its strong and lasting partnership with the EU and is committed to intensifying efforts without compromise.

EU Ambassador Oskar Benedikt highlighted the EU’s global reputation for taking effective action against illegal fishing.

With a solid legal framework and enforcement mechanisms, the EU supports Mauritius’s capacity-building efforts to monitor and control fishing activities.

The EU also actively participates in international initiatives to combat IUU fishing.

There is hope that these ongoing exchanges will position Mauritius as a model in the global fight against illegal fishing.

The EU remains dedicated to supporting Mauritius’s strategic role as a platform for sustainable fisheries and long-term conservation.

Source: Defi Media