MEP Nicolás González Casares (S&D) has submitted a parliamentary question to the European Commission, raising concerns over the elimination of tariffs on tuna products in the EU-Indonesia trade agreement. The Spanish MEP warns that the deal, which includes tariff-free quotas for canned tuna and tuna loins and a phase-out of tariffs on fresh and frozen fillets, could severely impact the EU's fishing and processing sector. He also highlights allegations of illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing and forced labour in Indonesia, the world's top tuna catcher and largest ASEAN exporter of tuna loins to the EU.
The question, filed on 17 April 2026 under Rule 144 of the European Parliament's rules of procedure, asks the Commission to disclose any impact assessment conducted on the tariff elimination and to outline support measures for affected EU producers. González Casares specifically demands details on the analysis of consequences for the EU fishing and processing industry, and on planned mitigation measures.
Concrete asks and policy orientation The MEP's question contains three concrete requests: first, for the Commission to provide the impact analysis and support measures; second, to strengthen health audits given past 'major shortcomings' identified by the Commission; and third, to explain the rationale for scrapping tariffs on tuna fillets. The question reflects a protectionist orientation, prioritising the competitiveness of EU fisheries over trade liberalisation, and signals concern over social and environmental standards in Indonesia.
Expected follow-up The Commission is expected to reply within approximately six weeks. Its answer will indicate whether it conducted a sectoral impact assessment, how it plans to address IUU and labour concerns, and whether it will offer compensatory measures to the EU industry. The response will also signal the Commission's stance on balancing trade liberalisation with sectoral protection and sustainability commitments.
Stakeholders and trade-offs EU tuna fishers and processors face increased competition from Indonesian imports, potentially losing market share and margins. EU consumers may benefit from lower prices and greater supply. Indonesian exporters gain preferential access to the EU market, boosting their economy. Environmental and labour NGOs will scrutinise whether the deal adequately addresses IUU fishing and forced labour allegations. The trade-off pits economic growth and consumer benefits against protection of EU industry jobs and enforcement of sustainability standards.
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