The European Commission may decide soon to send a yellow card to Panama on the grounds that the country is not doing enough to combat illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing. On 30 October last, Ecuador received such a warning (see EUROPE 12360/15).
The Commission reportedly identified shortcomings in Panama’s system for the inspection of fishery products and sanctions against offenders.
The Commission reportedly considers that the problems can be solved through dialogue and cooperation. However, if the country does not take any corrective action, the Commission may give it a ‘red card’, accompanied by trade sanctions (a ban on imports of fisheries products from Panama).
Of the 25 proceedings initiated since 2012, six have resulted in a red card (see EUROPE 12284/15). Three countries are still subject to sanctions: Cambodia, Comoros and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. For an overview of the proceedings, go to: http://bit.ly/32ZeMfN (Original version in French by Lionel Changeur)