The unassuming sandeel is at the heart of the first trade dispute between the UK and EU post-Brexit. The UK's prohibition on European vessels fishing for this silvery species in its North Sea waters to protect marine wildlife conflicts with the EU's stance that this discriminates against Danish commercial fishermen who rely on sandeel. The impasse will be addressed in a three-day trade tribunal hearing after attempts at resolution failed.
The case, taking place next week in The Hague at the Permanent Court of Arbitration, entails a panel of three international trade judges mutually agreed upon by both sides. They may support the UK's ban or instruct adjustments, potentially prompting Brussels to impose tariffs on British exports if directives are ignored.
The resolution is mandated to be reached by the end of April, without an option for appeal. Concurrently, the UK faces forthcoming negotiations with the EU on new catch limits post-June next year. Additionally, aspirations to establish new agreements, particularly on security and food trade, are on the agenda for Sir Keir Starmer, aiming to redefine relations with the EU.
Sandeel, a crucial food source for various fish species and seabirds, is managed jointly under the trade agreement but not utilized for culinary purposes. The UK, citing conservation concerns, ceased domestic sandeel fishing in 2021 and banned all vessels from catching it in English and Scottish waters, garnering praise from conservation groups. However, this move has provoked discontent among Danish fishermen, crucial suppliers to the animal feed and fish oil industries.
The EU contends that the UK's conservation-based trawler restrictions encroach on established EU fishing rights, citing inadequacies in scientific modeling regarding stock levels and impacts on Danish fishing communities. While the UK's counterarguments are forthcoming, it asserts a commitment to environmental preservation within its trade obligations. The ban's continuity has garnered broad support, transcending political affiliations and including conservation groups and pro-Brexit factions.
The renewable energy sector supports the ban, as it aids in fortifying seabird populations, thereby enabling increased wind farm constructions while meeting conservation objectives. Despite the modest £45m annual value of sandeel caught in UK waters, the case's significance lies in balancing conservation imperatives against economic interests during arbitration.