The European Union – EU has announced it will not renew its fishing agreement with Senegal, citing concerns over the country’s efforts to curb illegal fishing.

The EU delegation in Senegal confirmed the decision, highlighting concerns over monitoring and control of both Senegalese and foreign vessels, especially those operating from Dakar’s port.

Senegal had been flagged by the EU earlier this year as a “non-cooperating country” in the fight against illegal fishing, with European officials pointing to inadequate monitoring and surveillance systems.

Without a renewed agreement, European vessels will be required to exit Senegalese waters when the deal expires on Sunday, halting financial contributions to Senegal under this pact.

President BASSIROU DIOMAYE FAYE, elected in March, had pledged to review the agreement as part of his campaign, commissioning an audit of the fishing sector in May. However, the results of that review have yet to be made public.

The Senegalese government has yet to issue an official response to the EU’s decision.