The European Union’s representation in Gabon has publicly stated its commitment to addressing, in a constructive and transparent manner, the various concerns articulated in recent months. This assurance was conveyed through a social media update.
President Brice Oligui Nguema initiated a «procédure de dénonciation unilatérale» for these accords last June, articulating his view that the existing partnership was «profondément déséquilibré» and required significant renegotiation.
For its part, the EU asserts its readiness to engage in discussions for a «new-generation Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement» (SFPA), complete with a «mutually beneficial implementing protocol.» The bloc emphasizes a forward-thinking approach aimed at establishing a «renewed, balanced, and effective framework.»
The Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement (SFPA), originally established in 2007 between the European Union and Gabon, has historically granted European vessels the right to operate in Gabonese maritime zones.
A government report from last June, following a council of ministers meeting, detailed the President’s assertions. It highlighted that the revenue generated from the agreement failed to adequately compensate for the true value of the fish caught. Furthermore, it did not cover the substantial costs borne by the Gabonese state for monitoring and control, nor did it account for the lost added value resulting from a lack of local fish processing capabilities.
The President also criticized the insufficient investments made by partners towards local development, job creation, and the enhancement of national capacities. He further raised concerns about the heightened risk of overexploitation of marine resources, exacerbated by the absence of shared mechanisms for transparency and scientific oversight.
The SFPA underwent multiple renewals, extending its validity until 2021 for a five-year term. Its overall financial worth was estimated at roughly 17 billion CFA francs, equivalent to approximately 26 million euros.
