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Panama Intensifies fight Against Illegal Fishing to Meet EU Standards
panama is taking decisive steps to combat illegal fishing and secure its seafood trade with the European Union. The Panama Aquatic Resources Authority (ARAP) has approved critically important resolutions aimed at strengthening its efforts against illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing. These actions are crucial for Panama to meet its international commitments and avoid a potential trade ban by the EU.
Major Funding Boost Approved for Anti-IUU Fishing Measures
following the installation of its new Board of Directors, ARAP has authorized a request for an extraordinary loan of $7,238,639 from the Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF) for the fiscal year 2025. This funding includes $4,338,639 for operations and $2,900,000 for critical investments. These resources are earmarked to address pending activities, particularly those related to the European Union’s ongoing evaluation of panama’s fisheries management.
Additionally, ARAP has endorsed a proposed budget of $17,238,417 for the fiscal year 2026. This budget allocates $16,738,417 for operations and $500,000 for investments, which will be formally submitted to the MEF for approval.
“Yellow Card” Pressure and the Pursuit of the “Green Card”
Eduardo Carrasquilla, General Administrator of ARAP, emphasized that these financial resources are essential for complying with EU requirements under the “yellow card” procedure, which has been in effect since 2019 and was reaffirmed after a review in 2022.
According to ARAP’s projections, Panama anticipates a final audit in November 2025. Success in this audit could earn Panama the coveted “green card,” a certification that validates the legality of Panamanian fishing products and expands access to lucrative international markets.
“We are aligning our resources and technical efforts so that this year the green certification is achieved, which would be a milestone for the country and a recognition of this administration’s commitment to fishing sustainability,” Carrasquilla stated. This certification is critical for maintaining and growing Panama’s seafood exports to the EU.
EU Audit Rescheduled Amidst Administrative Changes
The General Directorate of Maritime and fisheries Affairs (DG-Mare) of the European Commission, responsible for overseeing integrated maritime policy and sustainable fisheries management, had initially scheduled an audit for November 2025. Though, this audit has been moved to the second quarter of 2025 to accommodate administrative changes within ARAP.
DG-Mare’s inspections focus on the implementation and enforcement of policies aimed at promoting the sustainable advancement of maritime activities and the responsible exploitation of fishery resources, both within and outside the EU’s 27 member states.
A History of Warnings: Panama’s Relationship with the EU
Panama’s journey with EU fisheries regulations has been turbulent. The EU first issued a yellow card to Panama in 2014, but the country successfully obtained a green card in 2017. though, due to insufficient investment and oversight, the economic bloc re-sanctioned Panama with a yellow card in 2019, according to ARAP’s General Administrator.
Subsequent audits in 2020 and 2022 failed to lift the yellow card sanction, raising concerns that the upcoming audit could result in a more severe “red card,” which would entail a complete trade embargo on Panamanian seafood products.
The Stakes: Seafood Exports and economic Impact
The EU’s IUU regulation, which took effect on January 1, 2010, applies to all trade in maritime fishing products with the EU. Its primary goal is to prevent illegally caught fish from entering the EU market. This regulation reinforces the International Action Plan advocated by the FAO in 2001, aligning with UN Sustainable Development Goal 14.4, which aims to eradicate illegal fishing by 2020.
Panama has been actively making adjustments to meet EU standards, as its seafood exports, primarily tuna (90%), shrimp, and prawns, are vital to its economy. Seafood is the second-largest food export to the EU, following bananas, according to data from the Ministry of Commerce and industries.
Oscar Vallarino,the Minister in charge of the Environment,emphasized that the approved credits demonstrate comprehensive institutional support for ARAP. He affirmed that these funds would bolster key actions to eliminate illegal fishing and facilitate Panama’s exit from the yellow card scheme.
Fausto Fernández, the Deputy Minister of Finance, reiterated MEF’s commitment to ensuring public resources are used efficiently. He clarified that the approved credit addresses inherited needs from the previous administration and aligns with current operational priorities.
Luis Roquebert, Administrator of the Maritime Authority of Panama (AMP), underscored the significance of the fishing sector for the country, stressing that Panama must continue to promote this activity throughout its national coast.
Pro Tip: Businesses exporting seafood can proactively adopt blockchain technology for supply chain transparency. This can enhance traceability and prove compliance with fishing regulations,increasing consumer confidence and market access.
Key Takeaways: Panama’s Fight Against Illegal Fishing
| Action | details | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Extraordinary Loan Request | $7,238,639 for 2025 | Addresses EU evaluation requirements |
| Proposed 2026 Budget | $17,238,417 | Sustains operational and investment activities |
| EU Audit | Rescheduled for Q2 2025 | Determines “green card” status |
| Seafood Exports | Tuna (90%), shrimp, prawns | Critical for Panama’s economy |
The Ongoing Battle against Illegal Fishing: An Evergreen Perspective
Illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing remains a significant global challenge, threatening marine ecosystems and economies worldwide. The Food and agriculture Organization (FAO) estimates that IUU fishing accounts for up to 26 million tonnes of fish annually,representing a loss of billions of dollars.
The EU’s IUU fishing regulation, established in 2010, has been a key driver in promoting sustainable fishing practices globally. By imposing strict import controls and collaborating with international partners, the EU aims to ensure that only legally caught seafood enters its market.
Several countries, including Fiji, Panama, Sri Lanka, Togo, and Vanuatu, have faced scrutiny from the EU regarding their fisheries management practices. While some have successfully addressed the EU’s concerns and obtained a “green card,” others continue to struggle with compliance.
combating IUU fishing requires a multifaceted approach, including strengthening national fisheries management, enhancing international cooperation, and leveraging technology for monitoring and enforcement. Satellite monitoring, electronic reporting systems, and DNA tracing are increasingly being used to track fishing vessels and verify the origin of seafood products.
The long-term sustainability of marine resources depends on effective measures to combat IUU fishing. By working together,governments,industry stakeholders,and consumers can ensure that future generations can benefit from healthy and productive oceans.
Frequently asked Questions About Panama and Illegal Fishing
- Why is Panama so focused on addressing illegal fishing right now?
- What exactly is the “yellow card” procedure from the EU?
- How much money is Panama investing to fight illegal fishing activities?
- What would happen if Panama were to receive a “red card” from the EU?
- When is the EU planning to conduct its next audit of Panama’s fishing practices?
- What percentage of Panama’s seafood exports to the EU consists of tuna products?
- Fishing without proper authorization.
- Catching fish in contravention of conservation and management measures.
- Failing to report catches or misreporting them.
- enhanced Monitoring and Control: Investing in advanced technologies like Vessel Monitoring Systems (VMS) and Automatic Identification systems (AIS) to track fishing vessels and ensure compliance. This includes regular inspections and audits.
- Strengthening collaboration: Working with governments, fisheries management organizations (FMOs), and other stakeholders to share details, coordinate enforcement efforts, and develop best practices.
- transparency and Traceability: Implementing robust traceability systems to follow fish products from catch to consumer, ensuring that products are sourced legally and sustainably. Blockchain technology is frequently enough used for this.
- Training and Capacity Building: Providing training to fishermen, vessel operators, and other personnel on best practices and IUU fishing regulations.
- Improved Market Access: Meeting EU standards can open doors to markets that prioritize sustainable and legal seafood.
- Strengthened Reputation: Compliance enhances an organization’s reputation as a responsible and ethical operator, which is more important in today’s environment.
- Long-Term Sustainability: Compliance helps to secure the long-term sustainability of fisheries and the marine environment.
- Reduced Risk: Adhering to regulations mitigates the risk of penalties, inspections, and legal challenges.
- Conduct regular internal audits to identify and address non-compliance issues.
- Promote transparency by publishing data on fishing activities and catch reports.
- Engage with research and development to stay updated on best practices in compliance and IUU fishing prevention.
- Actively participate in fisheries management discussions and contribute to policy development.
Panama needs to comply with EU standards to secure a “green card” for its seafood exports, which significantly boosts access to international markets.
It’s a warning from the EU that Panama must improve its fisheries management to combat illegal fishing. Failing to do so could lead to a trade ban (“red card”).
Panama is seeking a $7,238,639 loan for 2025, plus a proposed 2026 budget that includes $17,238,417 for operations.
A “red card” would mean a seafood trade ban, severely impacting Panama’s exports like tuna, shrimp, and prawns.
The audit, originally set for November 2025, has been moved to the second quarter of 2025.
How can ARAP best leverage blockchain technology for enhanced openness and traceability in its pursuit of EU fishing compliance credit?
ARAP’s Pursuit of Compliance: earning Credit in the Face of EU Illegal Fishing Scrutiny
In the world of international fisheries, adhering to regulations and avoiding the complexities of illegal fishing is critical. The Association of Responsible Aquaculture Practices (ARAP) is actively working towards strengthening its position within this habitat, specifically aiming to gain recognition and credit for its commitment to combating illegal fishing activities, especially under the scrutiny of the European Union (EU). This article dives deep into the strategies ARAP is employing and the broader context of international fisheries management.
The Core Issue: EU Scrutiny and Fishing Compliance
The European Union has taken a strong stance on combating illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing. Increased scrutiny necessitates proactive measures from organizations like ARAP. The EU’s focus impacts global fisheries, pushing organizations towards greater transparency and accountability. The goal is to prevent non-compliant practices and protect marine ecosystems.
Understanding the Scope of IUU Fishing
IUU fishing encompasses a range of activities, including:
These activities pose a considerable threat to marine biodiversity and the sustainability of fishing resources.
ARAP’s Strategies for Compliance and Credit
To earn recognition and credit, ARAP is implementing several strategies:
EU’s Framework and the WCPFC Connection
The Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC) plays a meaningful role here. In line with the EU’s focus, the WCPFC is working to enhance its framework on cetacean interaction in fisheries, which includes scrutiny of compliance with conservation and management measures (CNM). A report from November 24,2024,by WPCouncil.org, indicates the EU’s intent to fortify the existing framework, highlighting the importance of compliance and the role organizations like ARAP can take to improve their standing.(Source: WPCouncil report)
CNM Compliance: A Crucial Aspect
compliance with CNM is central to ARAP’s efforts. It involves adhering to a series of guidelines set by the governing body, including catch limits, fishing gear restrictions, and area closures. Strict compliance helps to diminish illegal fishing and helps ARAP seek credit.
Benefits of Compliance and Gaining Credit
Organizations like ARAP can benefit substantially from demonstrating compliance and gaining recognition, including:
| Activity | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Implementing traceability Systems | Improved Transparency, Enhanced Market Access |
| Investing in Monitoring Technology | Better Compliance Rates, Reduced Violations |
| collaborating with Stakeholders | Enhanced Information Sharing, Coordinated Enforcement |
Real-World Example: ARAP’s approach to Observer Programs
A key area of focus for ARAP is deploying self-reliant observers on fishing vessels. Observers provide vital information, documenting catch, fishing activities, and compliance with regulations. ARAP’s support for observer programs is a perfect example of going beyond the simple requirements to ensure that it promotes best practices and is rewarded for its actions in order to comply with EU standards.
