The European Union has signaled its readiness to engage in transparent and constructive dialogue following recent tensions regarding maritime cooperation in Central Africa. This follows a significant shift in policy by the Gabonese authorities concerning international fishing rights.
A move toward renegotiation
In June 2025, President Brice Oligui Nguema initiated a process to unilaterally terminate existing fishing arrangements. The head of state described the current partnership as fundamentally lopsided, emphasizing the urgent need for a complete overhaul of the terms to better serve national interests.
In response, the European Union has stated it is prepared to negotiate a “new generation” Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement. This potential future framework would include a fresh implementation protocol designed to be mutually beneficial, focusing on a modernized, balanced, and efficient structure for both parties.
Economic and environmental concerns
The Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement (SFPA), which was first established in 2007, has historically granted European vessels access to Gabonese territorial waters. However, the government in Libreville has voiced strong criticisms regarding the returns on this arrangement.
Official assessments indicate that the revenue generated from the pact fails to reflect the true market value of the fish resources being harvested. Furthermore, the financial compensation provided does not cover the high expenses incurred by Gabon for maritime surveillance and control operations. A major point of contention is the lack of local processing facilities, which results in a significant loss of economic added value for the country.
The presidency also highlighted several other grievances that led to this decision, including:
- Insufficient investment by international partners in local community development and infrastructure.
- A limited impact on national employment and professional capacity building within the sector.
- Heightened risks of depleting marine resources due to a lack of shared transparency and scientific monitoring mechanisms.
Financial context of the agreement
Last renewed in 2021 for a five-year period, the agreement is valued at approximately 17 billion CFA francs (roughly 26 million euros). Despite these figures, the transition toward a more equitable partnership remains a top priority for the administration as they seek to protect their sovereign maritime resources and ensure sustainable development for the future.