Council Presidency Accepts Incomprehensible Formula
In the absence of consensus among the Member States concerned, the Council Presidency finally accepted the European Commission’s proposal.
This sets the 2026 quota at the level to be reached in 2028 (125,000 tonnes). It allocates the quota among Member States according to a complex and incomprehensible formula.
This decision results in the allocation of 36,845 tonnes of skipjack tuna for the French fleet in 2026 (–5% compared to its average catches over the last three years). The allocation is 3,538 tonnes for Italy, and 84,616 tonnes for Spain (+7% compared to its recent average catches).
Efforts Mainly Borne By France, Says Xavier Leduc
Xavier Leduc, president of Orthongel, stated: ‘In April 2025, the IOTC adopted a resolution enacting an overall reduction in the TAC for skipjack tuna.’
“In this context, it is difficult to understand why the efforts, which should be shared by all European fleets, are mainly borne by France
“In 2026, French catches will have to decrease by 5%, while those of the Spanish fleet will be able to increase by 7%.
“This imbalance is perceived as deeply unfair by French professionals, especially in light of the Spanish fleet’s catches over the last three years.”
Orthongel acknowledged the commitment of the Minister for the Sea, Catherine Chabaud, during the Council.
They also acknowledged the excellent preparatory work and commitment from the teams at the Directorate-General for Maritime Affairs, Fisheries and Aquaculture (DG AMPA).