On 23 June 2026, the European Commission published a proposal for a Council Decision to extend the EU's position for annual fisheries consultations with the United Kingdom on total allowable catches (TACs) until 30 June 2038. The extension covers shared stocks, including deep-sea stocks, under the Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA) which entered into force on 1 May 2021.
The proposal amends Council Decision (EU) 2021/1875 of 22 October 2021, which was originally set to expire on 30 June 2027. A review conducted in July 2023 found no implementation issues and concluded that the Decision remains fit for purpose. The Commission conducts the annual consultations on behalf of the EU, based on best available scientific advice, the precautionary approach, and maximum sustainable yield objectives.
The extension would provide long-term stability for the EU's negotiating mandate, reducing the need for frequent renewals. A mandatory review must take place by 31 December 2036, with the possibility of revision by the Council upon a Commission proposal. The amending Decision would enter into force on the day of its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union.
The proposal impacts several stakeholders. EU fisheries administrations benefit from a stable legal framework for annual negotiations, reducing administrative burden. EU fishing fleets gain predictability in the long-term management of shared stocks, supporting investment planning. The UK government is affected as the extension maintains the existing consultation framework, which could facilitate bilateral relations. Environmental NGOs may view the extension positively if it ensures continued adherence to scientific advice and sustainability objectives, but could raise concerns if the mandate lacks flexibility to adapt to changing stock conditions.
The proposal now requires adoption by the Council of the European Union. The European Parliament will be consulted but has no binding role in this procedure. The extension is expected to be adopted before the current mandate expires in June 2027.