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Conservation of marine ecosystems: What are the requirements for sustainable fishing in the Black Sea basin?

Fishing is a vital sector for the economy and livelihoods of many coastal communities, but its sustainable management is key to protecting marine ecosystems. The European Union sets strict requirements for fishing activities in international waters and third country territories by implementing the Sustainable Management of External Fishing Fleet (SMEFF) Regulation.



The 2017 Sustainable Management of External Fishing Fleets (SMEFF) Regulation (Regulation (EU) 2017/2403) ensures that EU fishing vessels operating outside EU waters adhere to the same sustainability principles as those operating in EU waters. This regulation sets out rules, conditions and criteria for fishing authorisations and requires scientific assessments to demonstrate the sustainability of planned fishing operations. This includes:

  • Conducting scientific assessments of the sustainability of fishing activities.

  • Strict licensing regimes for fishing vessels.

  • Compliance with environmental and social standards imposed by the EU.

  • Monitoring, control and transparency of the activities carried out.


As an EU Member State, Bulgaria must ensure that its fishing fleet meets the following requirements:

  1. Scientific assessments – Bulgarian fishing activities in international waters must be subject to scientific assessments carried out by regional fisheries management organisations (RFMOs) or competent scientific institutions.

  2. Reporting and transparency – Detailed data on the quantities caught, the methods used and the state of the stocks must be provided.

  3. Control and enforcement – ​​Bulgaria must ensure compliance with established regulations through control measures and inspections.

  4. Protection of endangered species – Including sturgeons in the Black Sea basin, which are particularly vulnerable and require special conservation measures.


However, the SMEFF Regulation does not set specific criteria for what scientific information is required for a given SMEFF application.


The published study (link to document) offers recommendations for developing a robust science-based decision-making framework, with associated scientific protocols needed to demonstrate the sustainability of future fisheries.


Sustainable management of fish resources in the Black Sea Basin is crucial for the ecological balance and long-term viability of the fishing sector. The EU requirements aim to ensure that fishing is carried out in accordance with science-based principles and environmental standards.


Despite the challenges, these measures will help protect endangered species and ensure the sustainability of marine ecosystems for future generations.


For more information and current developments on the topic, you can visit the official website of the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency (CINEA):link to document.

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