Mauritania is the leading destination for Spanish fishing vessel exports.
The Spanish Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food, Luis Planas, and the Minister of Fisheries, Maritime, and Port Infrastructure of Mauritania, Fadhili Sidaty, have met to consolidate and strengthen fishing cooperation between the two countries during the High-Level Meeting (RAN).
The ultimate goal of this initiative is the responsible use of marine resources, respect for sustainability principles, and the creation of economic benefits for both parties.
Mauritania is a strategic partner for Spain in the fisheries sector, within the framework of the collaboration agreement between the European Union (EU) and the African country, which is the most significant of the agreements signed with third countries. This agreement is particularly relevant for Spanish trawler fleets, mainly those fishing for shellfish and hake, as stated by the Spanish minister.
Additionally, the leaders discussed the biological closures in Mauritania's waters, emphasizing the need for advance communication to the Spanish and European fleets operating there. This would help facilitate their planning and prevent potential economic losses.
Mauritania is the leading destination for Spanish fishing vessel exports. In 2024, a total of 33 Spanish vessels were licensed to operate in Mauritanian waters, where they captured nearly 15,737 tons of fish.
Next November, the renewal of the agreement between the EU and Mauritania will begin, which expires in November 2026. This agreement requires Spanish vessels operating in Mauritania to employ local sailors. For this reason, the ministers emphasized the importance of strengthening training programs.
Spain has offered the Intermares fishing cooperation training vessel to provide nautical and fishing training for professionals from the Mauritanian sector in the ports of Nouadhibou and Nouakchott throughout 2026.
