The Seychelles Mauritius fishing agreement has received approval from the Cabinet of Ministers. The deal allows licensed tuna fishing vessels from Seychelles and Mauritius to operate in each other’s waters.
The agreement provides reciprocal access within the Exclusive Economic Zones of both countries. It also sets licensing conditions, vessel limits and applicable fees.
Authorities say the rules apply to purse seine and longline vessels. The agreement will remain valid for three years and takes retrospective effect from 1 January 2026.
Officials say the arrangement strengthens cooperation between Seychelles and Mauritius in managing tuna fisheries in the region. It also supports the sustainable use of shared marine resources.
The approval comes as Seychelles prepares for a fifth round of negotiations with the European Union over a separate fisheries partnership that expired on 23 February 2026. The agreement, which began in 1987, allowed 21 EU-flagged tuna vessels to fish in Seychelles waters and generated €5.3 million a year for the country.
Fisheries Minister Wallace Cosgrow said both sides have agreed on most clauses but remain divided over the access fee. Seychelles is seeking a 30% increase, while the European Union has offered a 3% rise.
Mr Cosgrow said Seychelles will not receive financial benefits until a new agreement is reached. However, EU vessels can still cross Seychelles’ Exclusive Economic Zone, unload fish at Port Victoria, carry out transhipment and refuel.
Member of the European Parliament Emma Wiesner said the EU wants negotiations to continue and described the partnership as Europe’s largest global tuna fisheries agreement.