The Spanish government plans to file an appeal with the Court of Justice of the European Union next Monday, a course of action confirmed this Friday by Luis Planas, Spain’s minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food.
Planas stated that the government will appeal based on Article 263 of the EU Treaty against the European Commission’s regulation that limits deep‑water fishing zones and excludes certain areas deemed ecologically sensitive.
Spain argues that the rule restricts fishing at depths greater than 400 meters across 87 zones in the Northeast Atlantic and that the decree was not aligned with the best available scientific information, according to the minister. He also noted concerns about the assessment of longlines and other fixed gear, saying the demarcation of seafloor areas and the zones included in the bans extends beyond regions that require protection. The government will contend that the balance between biological sustainability and social and economic needs is not adequately achieved by the current regulation.
Union of action against European regulations
Planas highlighted the contribution of the State’s legal services and the collaborative work with scientists to address the issue, referencing the Spanish Institute of Oceanography. He also emphasized unity of action across the sector, supported by fishing associations and shipowners represented by Cepesca, as well as affected autonomous communities such as Cantabria and Galicia, with special mention of Andalusia. The government intends to keep an open negotiation channel with the European Commission, signaling that the review process could lead to adjustments in December that would reduce the regulation’s impact.
The veto went into effect on October 9, generating significant political controversy and sparking strong opposition along Spain’s Atlantic coast. It has affected fleets targeting species like longline-caught fish and hake skewers, stirring debate about livelihoods and regional fishing rights.