Gabon opens fresh EU fisheries talks to reshape sustainable fishing future
The Gabonese government has formally launched negotiations for a new sustainable fisheries partnership with the European Union. On September 18, 2026, the Council of Ministers met in Port-Gentil to greenlight talks, appoint a national negotiation team, and set a timeline for discussions aimed at finalizing a new Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement (SFPA) and its implementation protocol.
New deal seeks balanced cooperation and Gabon’s resource sovereignty
The government’s move follows the termination of the previous EU fisheries deal in June 2025, which had been in place since 2021. Under that agreement, up to 33 European vessels were permitted to fish for tuna in Gabonese waters in exchange for a €1.6 million annual payment from the EU, topped up by contributions from vessel operators.
Gabon had chosen not to renew the pact, citing significant imbalances—particularly in economic returns and local value creation from its marine resources. The new negotiations signal a clear mandate to secure a fairer, more sustainable framework.
Gabon prioritizes sovereignty, anti-illicit fishing, and blue economy growth
Minister of Fisheries, Maritime Affairs, and the Blue Economy Aimé Martial Massamba has made sovereignty over fishing resources, the fight against illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, and the expansion of a sustainable blue economy central pillars of his policy agenda.
Core objectives for the upcoming talks
- Strengthen Gabon’s control over access to its waters and the exploitation of its marine resources
- Enhance local value addition through processing, job creation, and technology transfer
- Tighten monitoring to curb illegal fishing and bolster maritime security
- Align the partnership with Gabon’s national development and environmental goals
EU signals openness to a ‘new-generation’ agreement
Brussels has already expressed willingness to engage in talks for a modernized, mutually beneficial deal. In June 2026, EU officials confirmed readiness to negotiate a new protocol that addresses Gabon’s concerns and supports sustainable fishing practices.
The EU Ambassador to Gabon, Cécile Abadie, previously emphasized the importance of dialogue: “My hope is that we can sit around the table and address each point swiftly and effectively.”
This renewed cooperation underscores a shared commitment to balancing economic interests with environmental and social responsibility.
What’s next in the negotiation timeline
Gabon has officially notified the EU of its position and launched domestic preparations, including:
- Formation of a dedicated national negotiation team
- Establishment of a structured negotiation calendar
- Launch of stakeholder consultations across the fisheries and maritime sectors
The goal is to finalize an agreement that safeguards Gabon’s sovereignty, promotes sustainable fishing, and delivers tangible benefits to citizens and the national economy.
