The European Commission says talks on sharing Atlantic mackerel quotas have stalled. The EU now calls on coastal states to resume efforts to reach an agreement and protect the stock.
Negotiations took place on 5–6 March. The EU chaired the meeting. The aim was to establish a comprehensive sharing arrangement and improve the management of the fishery. However, the Commission said no progress was made.
Talks fail to deliver an agreement
The European Commission said several parties had promised flexibility before the meeting. Despite this, the talks ended without progress.
The EU said it approached the negotiations with openness and flexibility. The goal was to help secure a deal between coastal states.
The Commission described the outcome as a missed opportunity.
EU stresses sustainability concerns
The EU said it has supported sustainable management during the last five years of talks.
According to the Commission, the EU has consistently raised concerns about the respect for ICES scientific advice.
The Commission also warned about continued overfishing by Russia.
Commission calls for urgent action
The Commission said all partners must take meaningful steps to rebuild the mackerel stock.
Without action, both the resource and the fishing sector remain at risk.
The EU said it will continue working with partners to reach a solution. The aim is an agreement that recognises the interests of the EU and Greenland.
The Commission also noted that the EU has maintained a stable quota share during negotiations.