EUROPEAN COMMISSION
Brussels, 12.5.2026
COM(2026) 193 final
2026/0107(NLE)
Proposal for a
COUNCIL DECISION
on the conclusion, on behalf of the European Union, of the Protocol on the implementation of the Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement between the European Union and the Republic of Seychelles (2026-2030)
EXPLANATORY MEMORANDUM
1.CONTEXT OF THE PROPOSAL
•Reasons for and objectives of the proposal
The Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement (SFPA) between the European Union and Seychelles 1 entered into force on 24 February 2020 for a duration of six years and is tacitly renewable for additional periods of six years.
On the basis of the Council Decision of 23 June 2025 2 authorising the opening of negotiations on behalf of the European Union of a new Protocol on the implementation of the Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement with the Republic of Seychelles, and the negotiating directives contained therein, the Commission conducted negotiations with the Republic of Seychelles (hereinafter ‘Seychelles’). Following those negotiations, a Protocol was initialled by the negotiators on 1 April 2026. The new protocol covers a period of four years from the date of provisional application set out in Article 19, i.e. the date of signature by the parties.
The purpose of the new Protocol is to grant fishing opportunities to Union vessels in the fishing zones located in the waters of Seychelles, in accordance with scientific advice and the recommendations of the relevant regional fisheries management organisation, the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC). The new Protocol provides for the following fishing opportunities:
- 30 tuna purse seine vessels;
- 8 surface longliners.
Another objective is to enhance cooperation between the Union and Seychelles by implementing the partnership framework for the Agreement in order to promote a sustainable fisheries policy and the responsible exploitation of fishery resources in the waters of Seychelles, in the interest of both parties.
The purpose of this proposal the approval of the conclusion of the new Protocol under Article 218(6) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU).
•Consistency with existing policy provisions in the policy area
The main aim of the new Protocol to the Agreement is to provide an updated framework that takes into account the priorities of the common fisheries policy (CFP) and the external dimension. This will help maintain and strengthen the strategic partnership between the European Union and Seychelles.
The new Protocol provides for fishing opportunities for Union vessels. It is based on the best available scientific advice and on the recommendations made by the IOTC.
•Consistency with other Union policies
The negotiation of a new protocol to implement the Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement with Seychelles is part of the EU’s external action towards the countries of the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS), and in particular with the Union objectives regarding the respect of democratic principles and human rights.
2.LEGAL BASIS, SUBSIDIARITY AND PROPORTIONALITY
•Substantive Legal basis
Given that the main objective and component of the Protocol is fisheries policy, the substantive legal basis is Article 43(2)TFEU.
Procedural legal basis
In accordance with Article 218(6) TFEU, where the agreement relates to matters outside of the common foreign and security policy (CFSP), the Council is to adopt a decision concluding the agreement on a proposal by the Commission as negotiator.
Given that Article 43(2) TFEU is the substantive legal basis, the Council is to adopt the decision concluding the agreement after obtaining the consent of the European Parliament, in accordance with Article 218(6), point (a) TFEU.
•Subsidiarity (for non-exclusive competence)
The proposal falls within the exclusive competence of the European Union pursuant to Article 3(1), point (d), TFEU. The subsidiarity principle therefore does not apply.
•Proportionality
The proposal is proportionate to the objective of establishing a legal, environmental, economic and social governance framework for fishing activities carried out by Union vessels in third-country waters, as set out in Article 31 of Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013 establishing the common fisheries policy. It complies with those provisions and with those on financial assistance to third countries laid down in Article 32 of that Regulation.
•Choice of the instrument
This proposal for a Council decision is submitted in accordance with Article 218(6) TFEU, which envisages the adoption by the Council of a decision concluding the agreement. There exists no other legal instrument that could be used in order to achieve the objective pursued by this proposal.
3.RESULTS OF EX POST EVALUATIONS, STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATIONS AND IMPACT ASSESSMENTS
•Ex post evaluations/fitness checks of existing legislation
In 2025, the Commission carried out an ex post evaluation of the current Protocol to the SFPA with Seychelles and an ex ante evaluation of a possible renewal of the Protocol. The conclusions of the evaluation are set out in a separate staff working document 3 .
The evaluation concluded that the Union fishing sectors are strongly interested in fishing in Seychelles and that the renewal of the Protocol is in the interest of both parties. Furthermore, the renewal of the Protocol would help strengthen monitoring, control and surveillance, and would contribute to improved governance of the fisheries in the region.
For the Union, it is important to maintain an instrument allowing deep sectoral cooperation with Seychelles, which is a strategic player at subregional level due to the fishing area under its jurisdiction and an important ally in the framework of the IOTC. Furthermore, for the Union fleet this means maintaining access to an important fishing area for the deployment of harvesting strategies under a multiannual international legal framework. The importance of Seychelles in terms of processing tuna caught in the Indian Ocean and consequent exports of tuna products to the Union increases the relevance of the envisaged new Protocol, both for the Union fishing industry and for the partner country. For the Seychelles authorities, the aim is to continue relations with the Union with a view, inter alia, to strengthening ocean governance, thereby benefiting from dedicated sectoral support that provides multiannual funding opportunities.
•Stakeholder consultations
Member States, industry representatives, international civil society organisations, the fisheries administration and representatives of civil society in Seychelles were consulted as part of the assessment.
•Collection and use of expertise
The Commission used an independent consultant for the ex post and ex ante evaluations, in accordance with Article 31(10) of Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013 establishing the common fisheries policy.
•Impact assessment
Not applicable.
•Regulatory fitness and simplification
Not applicable.
•Fundamental rights
A clause on the consequences of violations of human rights and democratic principles is included in the Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement.
4.BUDGETARY IMPLICATIONS
The annual financial contribution amounts to EUR 5 750 000, based on:
(a)an annual amount of EUR 2 750 000, equivalent to a reference tonnage of 55 000 tonnes per year; and
(b)a specific annual sectoral support amount of EUR 3 000 000 to help implement Seychelles’ sectoral fisheries policy.
The annual amount for commitment and payment appropriations is set during the annual budgetary procedure, including for the reserve line for protocols not yet in force at the beginning of the year.
5.OTHER ELEMENTS
•Implementation plans and monitoring, evaluation and reporting arrangements
The monitoring arrangements are provided for in the SFPA and the new Protocol.
• Text of the Agreement and notifications
The text of the Agreement is submitted to the Council together with this proposal.
In accordance with the Treaties, it is for the Commission to proceed to make the notification provided for in Article 21 of the Protocol, in order to express the consent of the Union to be bound by the Protocol.
2026/0107 (NLE)
Proposal for a
COUNCIL DECISION
on the conclusion, on behalf of the European Union, of the Protocol on the implementation of the Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement between the European Union and the Republic of Seychelles (2026-2030)
THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,
Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and in particular Article 43(2) in conjunction with Article 218(6), second paragraph, point (a)(v) and Article 218(7) thereof,
Having regard to the proposal from the European Commission,
Having regard to the consent of the European Parliament,
Whereas:
(1)In accordance with Council Decision [XXX] of […] 4 , the Protocol on the implementation of the Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement between the European Union and the Republic of Seychelles (2026-2030) (‘the Protocol’) was signed on […], subject to its conclusion at a later date and has been applied on a provisional basis since its signing, pending its entry into force.
(2)The aim of the Protocol is to allow Union vessels to fish in Seychelles’ fishing zone, to enable the Union and Seychelles to work closely together to further promote the development of a sustainable fisheries policy and the responsible exploitation of fisheries resources in Seychelles’ fishing zone and in the Indian Ocean. That cooperation will also contribute to the creation of decent working conditions in the fishing industry.
(3)The Protocol should be approved.
(4)Article 12 of the Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement between the European Union and the Republic of Seychelles (the Agreement) establishes a Joint Committee responsible for monitoring the application of the Agreement and the Protocol. That committee has the power to approve certain amendments to the Protocol. In order to facilitate the approval of such amendments, the Commission should be empowered, subject to substantive and procedural conditions, to approve them on behalf of the Union under a simplified procedure.
(5)The European Data Protection Supervisor was consulted in accordance with Article 42 of Regulation (EU) 2018/1725 of the European Parliament and of the Council 5 and delivered an opinion on [date].
HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:
Article 1
The Protocol on the implementation of the Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement between the European Union and the Republic of Seychelles (‘the Protocol’) is hereby approved.
The text of the Protocol is set out in Annex I.
Article 2
In accordance with the procedure and conditions set out in Annex II to this Decision, the Commission shall be empowered to approve, amendments to the Protocol adopted by the Joint Committee established under Article 12 of the Agreement.
Article 3
This Decision shall enter into force on the seventh day following that of its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union.
Done at Brussels,
For the Council
The President
LEGISLATIVE FINANCIAL AND DIGITAL STATEMENT
1.FRAMEWORK OF THE PROPOSAL/INITIATIVE3
1.1.Title of the proposal/initiative3
1.2.Policy area(s) concerned3
1.3.Objective(s)3
1.3.1.General objective(s)3
1.3.2.Specific objective(s)3
1.3.3.Expected result(s) and impact3
1.3.4.Indicators of performance3
1.4.The proposal/initiative relates to:4
1.5.Grounds for the proposal/initiative4
1.5.1.Requirement(s) to be met in the short or long term including a detailed timeline for roll-out of the implementation of the initiative4
1.5.2.Added value of EU involvement (it may result from different factors, e.g. coordination gains, legal certainty, greater effectiveness or complementarities). For the purposes of this section ‘added value of EU involvement’ is the value resulting from EU action, that is additional to the value that would have been otherwise created by Member States alone.4
1.5.3.Lessons learned from similar experiences in the past4
1.5.4.Compatibility with the multiannual financial framework and possible synergies with other appropriate instruments5
1.5.5.Assessment of the different available financing options, including scope for redeployment5
1.6.Duration of the proposal/initiative and of its financial impact6
1.7.Method(s) of budget implementation planned6
2.MANAGEMENT MEASURES8
2.1.Monitoring and reporting rules8
2.2.Management and control system(s)8
2.2.1.Justification of the budget implementation method(s), the funding implementation mechanism(s), the payment modalities and the control strategy proposed8
2.2.2.Information concerning the risks identified and the internal control system(s) set up to mitigate them8
2.2.3.Estimation and justification of the cost-effectiveness of the controls (ratio between the control costs and the value of the related funds managed), and assessment of the expected levels of risk of error (at payment & at closure)8
2.3.Measures to prevent fraud and irregularities9
3.ESTIMATED FINANCIAL IMPACT OF THE PROPOSAL/INITIATIVE10
3.1.Heading(s) of the multiannual financial framework and expenditure budget line(s) affected10
3.2.Estimated financial impact of the proposal on appropriations12
3.2.1.Summary of estimated impact on operational appropriations12
3.2.1.1.Appropriations from voted budget12
3.2.1.2.Appropriations from external assigned revenues17
3.2.2.Estimated output funded from operational appropriations22
3.2.3.Summary of estimated impact on administrative appropriations24
3.2.3.1. Appropriations from voted budget24
3.2.3.2.Appropriations from external assigned revenues24
3.2.3.3.Total appropriations24
3.2.4.Estimated requirements of human resources25
3.2.4.1.Financed from voted budget25
3.2.4.2.Financed from external assigned revenues26
3.2.4.3.Total requirements of human resources26
3.2.5.Overview of estimated impact on digital technology-related investments28
3.2.6.Compatibility with the current multiannual financial framework28
3.2.7.Third-party contributions28
3.3.Estimated impact on revenue29
4.Digital dimensions29
4.1.Requirements of digital relevance30
4.2.Data30
4.3.Digital solutions31
4.4.Interoperability assessment31
4.5.Measures to support digital implementation32
1.FRAMEWORK OF THE PROPOSAL/INITIATIVE
1.1.Title of the proposal/initiative
Proposal for a Council Decision on the conclusion of the Protocol on the implementation of the Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement (SPFA) between the European Union and the Republic of Seychelles (2026-2030).
1.2.Policy area(s) concerned
08 – Agriculture and maritime policy
08.05 – Sustainable fisheries partnership agreements (SFPAs) and regional fisheries management organisations (RFMOs)
08.05.01 – Establishing a governance framework for fishing activities carried out by Union fishing vessels in third-country waters.
1.3.Objective(s)
1.3.1.General objective(s)
The negotiation and conclusion of Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreements (SFPAs) with third countries meets the general objective of allowing Union fishing vessels access to third country fishing grounds and developing a partnership with these countries with a view to strengthening the sustainable exploitation of fisheries resources outside Union waters.
The SFPAs also ensure consistency between the principles governing the Common Fisheries Policy and the commitments enshrined in other European policies such as sustainable exploitation of third-country resources, combating illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing, integration of partner countries into the global economy, contribution to sustainable development in all its dimensions, as well as better governance of fisheries at political and financial level.
1.3.2.Specific objective(s)
Specific objective No 1
Contribute to sustainable fisheries in waters outside the Union, maintain a European presence in distant water fisheries and protect the interests of the European fishing industry and consumers, by negotiating and concluding SFPAs with coastal states, in coherence with other European policies.
1.3.3.Expected result(s) and impact
Specify the effects which the proposal/initiative should have on the beneficiaries/groups targeted.
The conclusion of the implementing Protocol allows the strategic partnership in the field of fisheries between the European Union and Seychelles to be continued and strengthened. The conclusion of the Protocol will create fishing opportunities for Union vessels in Seychelles’ fishing zone.
The Protocol will also contribute to better management and conservation of fisheries resources, through financial support (sectoral support) for the implementation of programmes adopted at national level by the partner country, in particular the global plan for fisheries, the monitoring of and fight against illegal fishing, and support for the small-scale fishing sector.
Finally, the Protocol will contribute to the sustainable exploitation by Seychelles of its marine resources, as well as to the Seychelles’ fisheries economy, by promoting growth linked to fisheries-related economic activities and the establishment of decent working conditions.
1.3.4.Indicators of performance
Specify the indicators for monitoring progress and achievements.
Utilisation rate of fishing opportunities (annual percentage of fishing authorisations used in relation to the availability offered by the Protocol).
Catch data (collection and analysis) and commercial value of the agreement.
Creation of added value in the Union and the stabilisation of the Union market (aggregated with other SFPAs).
Contribution to improving research, monitoring and control of fishing activities by the partner country and the development of its fisheries sector, particularly small-scale fisheries.
1.4.The proposal/initiative relates to:
x a new action
a new action following a pilot project / preparatory action 6
the extension of an existing action
a merger or redirection of one or more actions towards another/a new action
1.5.Grounds for the proposal/initiative
1.5.1.Requirement(s) to be met in the short or long term including a detailed timeline for roll-out of the implementation of the initiative
It is foreseen that the new implementing Protocol will apply provisionally from the date of signature in order to reduce the time during which fishing operations are not possible.
The new Protocol will regulate the fishing activities of the Union fleet in Seychelles’ fishing zone and will authorise the owners of Union vessels to apply for fishing authorisations to fish in that zone.
In addition, the new Protocol will strengthen cooperation between the EU and Seychelles with a view to promoting the development of a sustainable fisheries policy in all its dimensions. It provides, in particular, for vessels to be monitored via VMS and for the electronic transmission of catch data.
The sectoral support available under the Protocol will help Seychelles in the framework of its national fisheries strategy, including the fight against IUU fishing, while promoting decent working conditions during fishing activities.. Implementation will start upon signature and for a duration of four years.
1.5.2.Added value of EU involvement (it may result from different factors, e.g. coordination gains, legal certainty, greater effectiveness or complementarities). For the purposes of this section ’added value of EU involvement’ is the value resulting from EU action, that is additional to the value that would have been otherwise created by Member States alone.
If the Union did not conclude a new Protocol, Union vessels would not be able to carry out their fishing activities, given that the current agreement includes a clause excluding fishing activities that do not take place within the framework defined by a Protocol to the agreement.
The added value for the Union’s distant water fleet is therefore clear. The Protocol also provides a framework for enhanced cooperation between the Union and Seychelles.
1.5.3.Lessons learned from similar experiences in the past
Analysis of historical catches in Seychelles’ fishing zone and available scientific assessments and advice led the Parties to set fishing opportunities for 30 tuna purse seine vessels and 8 surface longliners. Sectoral support is important in order to take into account the priorities of the national strategy for fisheries and the exploitation of natural resources.
1.5.4.Compatibility with the multiannual financial framework and possible synergies with other appropriate instruments
The funds allocated as financial compensation for access to the SFPA constitute fungible revenue to Seychelles’ national budget. However, funds intended for sectoral support are allocated (generally by inclusion in the annual budget law) to the Ministry responsible for fisheries, as a condition for the conclusion and monitoring of SFPAs. These financial resources are compatible with other sources of funding from other providers of international funding for projects and/or programmes to be carried out at national level in the fisheries sector.
1.5.5.Assessment of the different available financing options, including scope for redeployment
Not applicable.
1.6.Duration of the proposal/initiative and of its financial impact
limited duration
– in effect from a period of four years from the date of the signature.
– financial impact of four years from the date of the signature for commitment appropriations and four years and six months from the date of the signature for payment appropriations.
unlimited duration
–Implementation with a start-up period from YYYY to YYYY,
–followed by full-scale operation.
1.7.Method(s) of budget implementation planned
Direct management by the Commission
– by its departments, including by its staff in the Union delegations;
– by the executive agencies
Shared management with the Member States
Indirect management by entrusting budget implementation tasks to:
– third countries or the bodies they have designated
– international organisations and their agencies (to be specified)
– the European Investment Bank and the European Investment Fund
– bodies referred to in Articles 70 and 71 of the Financial Regulation
– public law bodies
– bodies governed by private law with a public service mission to the extent that they are provided with adequate financial guarantees
– bodies governed by the private law of a Member State that are entrusted with the implementation of a public-private partnership and that are provided with adequate financial guarantees
– bodies or persons entrusted with the implementation of specific actions in the common foreign and security policy pursuant to Title V of the Treaty on European Union, and identified in the relevant basic act
–bodies established in a Member State, governed by the private law of a Member State or Union law and eligible to be entrusted, in accordance with sector-specific rules, with the implementation of Union funds or budgetary guarantees, to the extent that such bodies are controlled by public law bodies or by bodies governed by private law with a public service mission, and are provided with adequate financial guarantees in the form of joint and several liability by the controlling bodies or equivalent financial guarantees and which may be, for each action, limited to the maximum amount of the Union support.
Comments
2.MANAGEMENT MEASURES
2.1.Monitoring and reporting rules
The Commission (DG MARE, in collaboration with its Fisheries Attaché responsible for Seychelles, and in coordination with the relevant Commission departments) will ensure regular monitoring of the implementation of the Protocol as regards the use of fishing opportunities by operators, catch data and compliance with the conditions for sectoral support.
In addition, the SFPA provides for at least one annual meeting of the Joint Committee during which the Commission and Seychelles will review the implementation of the Agreement and its Protocol and make any necessary adjustments to programming and, where appropriate, to the financial contribution.
2.2.Management and control system(s)
2.2.1.Justification of the budget implementation method(s), the funding implementation mechanism(s), the payment modalities and the control strategy proposed
Payments are implemented in a decoupled manner for the access counterparty and the sectoral support counterparty.
Payments relating to access are made each year not later than the anniversary date of the Protocol, except in the first year, when payment is made within three months of the start of provisional application. Vessel access is controlled by the issuing of fishing authorisations.
Payment of the sectoral support will be made the first time within 30 days after the Joint Committee adopts the multiannual sectoral programme; for subsequent years, payment will be subject to the results achieved. The results achieved and the rate of implementation will be monitored in accordance with the implementing rules detailed in the Appendix 6 to the Annex to the Protocol and on the basis of reports or documentary evidence provided by the partner country and evaluations and verifications carried out by the Fisheries Attaché
2.2.2.Information concerning the risks identified and the internal control system(s) set up to mitigate them
The risk identified is an under-utilisation of fishing opportunities by Union shipowners and under-utilisation or delays in the use of funds intended to finance the sectoral fisheries policy by Seychelles. Extensive dialogue is planned on the programming and implementation of the sectoral policy laid down in the Agreement and the Protocol. The joint monitoring of results referred to in the Appendix 6 to the Annex to the Protocol is also one of these means of control. In addition, the Agreement and the Protocol contain specific clauses for their suspension, on certain conditions and in given circumstances.
2.2.3.Estimation and justification of the cost-effectiveness of the controls (ratio between the control costs and the value of the related funds managed), and assessment of the expected levels of risk of error (at payment & at closure)
Payments of access costs under Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreements (SFPAs) are subject to checks to ensure that they comply with the provisions of international agreements. Controls relating to sectoral support aim to monitor the implementation of this support. Monitoring is carried out by Commission staff based in EU delegation and at meetings of the Joint Committee. A multiannual programming matrix is used to assess progress. If progress is insufficient, payment of the next instalment is suspended or reduced. It is estimated that the overall cost of controls on all SFPAs is around 1.8% (of all contributions in 2018). SFPA control procedures are largely based on essential regulatory requirements. If no deficiencies are detected that are likely to have a significant impact on the legality and regularity of financial transactions, the controls are considered to be effective.
2.3.Measures to prevent fraud and irregularities
The Commission undertakes to establish a political dialogue and regular consultations with Seychelles in order to improve the management of the Agreement and the Protocol and to strengthen the Union's contribution to the sustainable management of resources. Any payment made by the Commission under a SFPA is subject to the Commission's normal budgetary and financial rules and procedures. In particular, the bank accounts of the third countries to which the amounts of the financial contribution are paid shall be fully identified. Article 4 of the Protocol stipulates that the financial contribution for access and that for developing the sector must be paid into the Seychelles' Government consolidated account with Treasury.. Provisions on the recovery of unduly paid sectoral support funds are included in the Appendix 6 to the Annex to the Protocol.
3.ESTIMATED FINANCIAL IMPACT OF THE PROPOSAL/INITIATIVE
3.1.Heading(s) of the multiannual financial framework and expenditure budget line(s) affected
·Existing budget lines
In order of multiannual financial framework headings and budget lines.
|
Heading of multiannual financial framework |
Budget line |
Type of expenditure |
Contribution |
|||
|
Number
|
Diff./Non-diff. 7 |
from EFTA countries 8 |
from candidate countries and potential candidates 9 |
From other third countries |
other assigned revenue |
|
|
Establishing a governance framework for fishing activities carried out by Union fishing vessels in third-country waters |
08.05.01 |
Diff. |
NO |
NO |
NO |
NO |
3.2.Estimated financial impact of the proposal on appropriations
3.2.1.Summary of estimated impact on operational appropriations
– The proposal/initiative does not require the use of operational appropriations
– The proposal/initiative requires the use of operational appropriations, as explained below
3.2.1.1.Appropriations from voted budget
EUR million (to three decimal places)
|
Heading of multiannual financial framework |
Number 3 |
Natural resources and environment |
|
DG: MARE |
Year |
Year |
Year |
Year |
TOTAL MFF 2026-2029 |
|||||||||||||||||
|
2026 |
2027 |
2028 |
2029 |
|||||||||||||||||||
|
Operational appropriations |
||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Budget line 08.05.01 |
Commitments |
(1a) |
5 750 |
5 750 |
5 750 |
5 750 |
23 000 |
|||||||||||||||
|
Payments |
(2a) |
5 750 |
5 750 |
5 750 |
5 750 |
23 000 |
||||||||||||||||
|
Appropriations of an administrative nature financed from the envelope of specific programmes |
||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Budget line |
|
(3) |
|
|
|
|
||||||||||||||||
|
TOTAL appropriations for DG MARE |
Commitments |
=1a+1b+3 |
5 750 |
5 750 |
5 750 |
5 750 |
23 000 |
|||||||||||||||
|
Payments |
=2a+2b+3 |
5 750 |
5 750 |
5 750 |
5 750 |
23 000 |
||||||||||||||||
|
|
Year |
Year |
Year |
Year |
TOTAL MFF 2026-2029 |
|||||||||||||||||
|
2026 |
2027 |
2028 |
2029 |
|||||||||||||||||||
|
TOTAL operational appropriations
|
Commitments |
(4) |
5 750 |
5 750 |
5 750 |
5 750 |
23 000 |
|||||||||||||||
|
Payments |
(5) |
5 750 |
5 750 |
5 750 |
5 750 |
23 000 |
||||||||||||||||
|
TOTAL appropriations of an administrative nature financed from the envelope for specific programmes |
(6) |
0 000 |
0 000 |
0 000 |
0 000 |
0 000 |
||||||||||||||||
|
TOTAL appropriations under HEADING 3 |
Commitments |
=4+6 |
5 750 |
5 750 |
5 750 |
5 750 |
23 000 |
|||||||||||||||
|
of the multiannual financial framework |
Payments |
=5+6 |
5 750 |
5 750 |
5 750 |
5 750 |
23 000 |
|||||||||||||||
|
Year |
Year |
Year |
Year |
TOTAL MFF 2026-2029 |
||||||||||||||||||
|
2026 |
2026 |
2028 |
2029 |
|||||||||||||||||||
|
• TOTAL operational appropriations (all operational headings) |
Commitments |
(4) |
5 750 |
5 750 |
5 750 |
5 750 |
23 000 |
|||||||||||||||
|
Payments |
(5) |
5 750 |
5 750 |
5 750 |
5 750 |
23 000 |
||||||||||||||||
|
• TOTAL appropriations of an administrative nature financed from the envelope for specific programmes (all operational headings) |
(6) |
0 000 |
0 000 |
0 000 |
0 000 |
0 000 |
||||||||||||||||
|
TOTAL appropriations Under Heading 3 to 7 |
Commitments |
=4+6 |
5 750 |
5 750 |
5 750 |
5 750 |
23 000 |
|||||||||||||||
|
of the multiannual financial framework
|
Payments |
=5+6 |
5 750 |
5 750 |
5 750 |
5 750 |
23 000 |
|||||||||||||||
|
|
7 |
‘Administrative expenditure’ |
||||||||
|
TOTAL appropriations under HEADING 7 of the multiannual financial framework |
(Total commitments = Total payments) |
0 000 |
0 000 |
0 000 |
0 000 |
0 000 |
||||
EUR million (to three decimal places)
|
|
Year |
Year |
Year |
Year |
TOTAL MFF 2026-2029 |
|
|
2026 |
2027 |
2028 |
2029 |
|||
|
TOTAL appropriations under HEADINGS 3 to 7 |
Commitments |
5 750 |
5 750 |
5 750 |
5 750 |
23 000 |
|
of the multiannual financial framework |
Payments |
5 750 |
5 750 |
5 750 |
5 750 |
23 000 |
3.2.2.Estimated output funded from operational appropriations (not to be completed for decentralised agencies)
Commitment appropriations in EUR million (to three decimal places)
|
Indicate objectives and outputs |
Year
|
Year
|
Year
|
Year
|
TOTAL |
|||||||
|
Type 10 |
Average cost |
No |
Cost |
No |
Cost |
No |
Cost |
No |
Cost |
Total No |
Total cost |
|
|
SPECIFIC OBJECTIVE No 1 11 … |
||||||||||||
|
Access |
2 750 |
2 750 |
2 750 |
2 750 |
2 750 |
2 750 |
2 750 |
11 000 |
||||
|
Sectoral support |
3 000 |
3 000 |
3 000 |
3 000 |
3 000 |
3 000 |
3 000 |
12 000 |
||||
|
Subtotal for specific objective No 1 |
5 750 |
5 750 |
5 750 |
5 750 |
5 750 |
5 750 |
5 750 |
23 000 |
||||
|
TOTALS |
5 750 |
5 750 |
5 750 |
5 750 |
5 750 |
5 750 |
5 750 |
23 000 |
||||
3.2.3.Summary of estimated impact on administrative appropriations
– The proposal/initiative does not require the use of appropriations of an administrative nature
– The proposal/initiative requires the use of appropriations of an administrative nature, as explained below
The appropriations required for human resources and other expenditure of an administrative nature will be met by appropriations from the DG that are already assigned to management of the action and/or have been redeployed within the DG, together, if necessary, with any additional allocation which may be granted to the managing DG under the annual allocation procedure and in the light of budgetary constraints.
3.2.4.Estimated requirements of human resources
– The proposal/initiative does not require the use of human resources
– The proposal/initiative requires the use of human resources, as explained below
3.2.5.Overview of estimated impact on digital technology-related investments
The digital solutions used for the implementation of the Protocol already exist and are already being implemented for the previous Protocol and other fisheries agreements, as well as the implementation of Regulations 1224/2009 and 2403/2017. Investments in maintaining and improving the functionality of these digital tools are not specific to this Protocol
3.2.6.Compatibility with the current multiannual financial framework
The proposal/initiative:
– can be fully financed through redeployment within the relevant heading of the multiannual financial framework (MFF)
The proposal/initiative is compatible the current multiannual financial framework. The use of the reserve line 30.020200 is foreseen for the amounts mentioned in paragraph 3.2.5.
– requires use of the unallocated margin under the relevant heading of the MFF and/or use of the special instruments as defined in the MFF Regulation
– requires a revision of the MFF
3.2.7.Third-party contributions
The proposal/initiative:
– does not provide for co-financing by third parties
– provides for the co-financing by third parties estimated below:
Appropriations in EUR million (to three decimal places)
|
Year
|
Year
|
Year
|
Year
|
Total |
|
|
Specify the co-financing body |
|||||
|
TOTAL appropriations co-financed |
3.3.
Estimated impact on revenue
– The proposal/initiative has no financial impact on revenue.
– The proposal/initiative has the following financial impact:
– on own resources
– on other revenue
– please indicate, if the revenue is assigned to expenditure lines
EUR million (to three decimal places)
|
Budget revenue line: |
Appropriations available for the current financial year |
Impact of the proposal/initiative 12 |
|||
|
Year 2024 |
Year 2025 |
Year 2026 |
Year 2027 |
||
|
Article …………. |
|||||
For assigned revenue, specify the budget expenditure line(s) affected.
Other remarks (e.g. method/formula used for calculating the impact on revenue or any other information).
4.Digital dimensions
4.1.Requirements of digital relevance
|
Reference to the requirement |
Requirement description |
Use of digital technology |
|
Vessel position data (Article 12, Chapter IV and Appendix 4 of the Annex to the Protocol) |
The vessel must be equipped with a vessel monitoring device and provide information identifying the vessel, its position, course and speed at regular intervals (VMS data). |
VMS |
|
Electronic fishing logbooks (Chapter IV and Appendix 4 of the Annex to the Protocol) |
The master must record catch data on a daily basis in an electronic fishing logbook integrated into an electronic recording and reporting system (ERS). |
ERS |
|
Requests for authorisation of vessels (Chapter I of the Annex to the Protocol) |
A database of authorisations is used to apply for the fishing authorisation from the partner country |
LICENSE |
|
Daily data transmission (Chapter IV and Appendix 4 of the Annex to the Protocol) |
Electronic logbook data shall be transmitted automatically and on a daily basis to the Fisheries Monitoring Centre (FMC) of the flag State. |
ERS |
|
Entries into and exits from the fishing zone, prior notifications and landing and transhipment declarations (Chapter IV, and Appendix 4 of the Annex to the Protocol) |
Recording and transmission of each entry into and exit from the fishing zone via the ERS or other electronic means of communication. |
ERS |
|
Quarterly aggregated data (Chapter III of the Annex to the Protocol) |
The flag State shall provide the European Commission with the aggregated quantities of catches and discards on a quarterly basis. |
ECR |
|
Data protection (Article 11 and Appendix 7 of the Annex to the Protocol) |
Data on fishing activities shall be treated in a confidential and secure manner. |
|
4.2.Data
|
Alignment with the European Data Strategy Explanation of how the requirement(s) are aligned with the European Data Strategy The key reporting requirements are based on digital technology, in particular through the Vessel Monitoring System (VMS, which transmits vessel positions and identification) and the daily automatic transmission of electronic logbooks (ERS, which transmits its identified, localised and quantified catches). The quarterly and annual aggregated catch reports use an implicit numerical database for data aggregation (ECR database) fed by the flag Member States. Data protection and privacy: • The agreement stresses the importance of protecting personal data. The specified measures shall ensure that data shared for fishing activities are processed safely, in compliance with GDPR requirements and in line with the strategy’s objective of creating a secure and competitive digital economy. Data sharing and transparency: • The agreement encourages data sharing between Seychelles and the EU, promoting transparency and accountability in fishing activities. This reflects the objective of the European Data Strategy to improve access to and use of data, facilitating better decision-making and resource management. Alignment with the once-only principle Explanation of how the once-only principle has been considered and how the possibility to reuse existing data has been explored Consideration of the Only Once Principle • The ‘only once’ principle is not mentioned, but the information is provided by operators only once to the public authorities, in accordance with the flag State’s principle of responsibility: it collects data from vessels and keeps it in VMS and ERS databases, which can be used for various parties, minimises redundancy and administrative burden, making it possible to use the same data to meet several reporting requirements to the different authorities. Explanation of how newly created data is findable, accessible, interoperable and reusable, and meets high-quality standards FAIR principles: Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and ReusableEasy to find: • The introduction of electronic reporting systems ensures that data is catalogued and searchable in a systematic manner, helping to make the data easy to find. Automated systems such as ERS allow for structured data archiving, which is consistent with the ease of finding FAIR principles. Accessibility: • Data must be accessible to authorised entities through secure digital platforms, allowing real-time sharing and minimising unnecessary barriers. This controlled accessibility ensures that the right actors have access to information as necessary, in line with the FAIR principles. Interoperability: • The use of the UN/FLUX format for data exchange improves interoperability. This standardisation allows different systems to share and use data smoothly, meeting one of the core objectives of the FAIR principles. Reusability: • By specifying quality standards and secure data management in the Protocol, data are more likely to be of high quality and thus reusable for different objectives such as scientific research, policy development and fisheries management. Ensuring high data quality and compliance with international standards supports their re-use in various contexts, thus respecting the reusability aspect of the FAIR principles. • In summary, the requirements of the Protocol are aligned with the European Data Strategy through enhanced data protection, increased sharing and implementation of digital systems. They consider the ‘only once’ principle by reducing redundant data submissions and align themselves with the FAIR principles to ensure that data is well managed for a wide range of purposes. |
4.3.Digital solutions
|
The main digital solutions used are VMS, ERS, LICENCE and ECR, which are existing digital solutions for fisheries control put in place by the European Commission and used by the flag Member States. • The data identified in 4.1 are usually exchanged by these digital solutions between a vessel (EU operator) and its flag State, and then between the EU and the partner country (notably between fisheries monitoring centres, which are state control bodies). • Aggregated data are derived from operators’ declarations to the flag Member State, which reprocess them and feed into a European Commission database (Effort and Catch Reporting, ECR).• Applications for fishing authorisations sent to the partner country involve data from a Fleet database (EU fishing register) and a LICENCE database, which are then transmitted by the European Commission to the partner country. What measures are in place to protect digitally transmitted data? The Protocol specifies the need for secure and confidential treatment of data (Article 11 and Appendix 7)Is there a plan to address failures in digital systems? Yes, provision is made for alternative communication methods in case of system failure to ensure continuity of reporting (Annex, Chapter IV). |
4.4.Interoperability assessment
|
The use of the UN/FLUX format for data exchange improves interoperability. This standardisation allows different systems to share and use data smoothly. |
4.5.Measures to support digital implementation
Implementation support is provided by the European Commission.