Question no. 776
Mr G.R. Morgan (DA) to ask the Minister of Water and Environmental Affairs:
(1) Whether the European Union (EU) is planning to institute a catch document scheme on fish imports from South Africa; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details of this requirement;
(2) whether there are plans in place to ensure that exports to the EU comply with the requirements; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details;
(3) whether there are cost implications for the department in complying with these requirements; if not, how was this conclusion reached; if so, what are the relevant details;
(4) what was the total tonnage of fish exported to the EU in (a) 2007 and (b) 2008?
776. The Minister of Water and Environmental Affairs answers:
(1) Yes. The EU Member States have reached an agreement to institute a catch document scheme on fish imports from all over the world. The scheme will be introduced from 1 January 2010 in order to improve traceability of all marine fisheries products being imported into the EU.
(2) Yes. South Africa has held ongoing bilateral discussions with the EU on the acceptability of South Africa's current export permits in ensuring the traceability of fish and fish products in order to comply with the EU regulations.
(3) If the EU accepts South Africa's current export permits, there will not be additional cost implications for the country.
(4)(a) 22 362 260 kg.
(4)(b) 2008 data will be available by 31 March 2010 as the processing of data is collated by customs.
Issued by: Department of Water and Environmental Affairs
14 August 2009
