This study offers recommendations for the development of a sound science-based decision framework, with associated scientific protocols required to demonstrate a prospective fishery’s sustainability.
The Sustainable Management of External Fishing Fleets (SMEFF) Regulation is in place to ensure European Union (EU) fishing vessels conducting fishing activities outside Union waters adhere to the same sustainability principles as those operating inside EU waters. The SMEFF Regulation sets rules, conditions, and criteria for fishing authorisations, and defines processes and protocols that must be followed by the fishing operator, the flag Member State and the European Commission (EC) throughout the authorisation process for EU vessels fishing in non-EU waters.
The SMEFF Regulation also requires a scientific evaluation demonstrating the sustainability of the planned fishing operations, which must be provided by either a Regional Fisheries Management Organisation (RFMO), a regional fisheries body with scientific competence, or a third country (or in cooperation with it).
Download the final report here and learn more about these recommendations.