Temporary EU Derogation on Preferential Origin for Cabo Verde

Key Information

On March 6, 2026, the European Commission published Implementing Regulation (EU) 2026/507, granting Cabo Verde a temporary derogation from the preferential origin rules for certain seafood products exported to the European Union. This measure facilitates access to the European market for preparations or preserves of tuna fillets, tuna loins, mackerel, and auxides.

Key Points

• Temporary derogation granted to the Cabo Verde archipelago for EU preferential origin rules
• Covered products: tuna fillets and loins (raw, cooked, frozen), preparations/preserves of mackerel and auxides
• Regulation (EU) 2026/507 of 6 March 2026 specifically modifies the conditions for access to the preferential tariff

Background and Issues

Under Delegated Regulation (EU) 2015/2446 regarding the rules of preferential origin, a derogation may be granted to a partner country facing supply or processing difficulties. Cabo Verde, with its strong fisheries sector, requested this facility to maintain its competitiveness and export capacity for fishery products—strategic sectors for its economy. This derogation addresses the need for flexibility among Cabo Verdean exporters and aligns with the EU’s intention to support its partners while maintaining controls on product origin.

Impact for Professionals

For importers, exporters, and customs declarants, this regulation enables the application of a preferential tariff on certain seafood products originating from Cabo Verde, even if all standard origin requirements are not met. It is essential to verify the legitimacy of using this derogation during the target period and to retain appropriate supporting documents, in particular within preferential origin justification files in the event of customs audits. Freight forwarders should inform their clients about the new eligibility rules and ensure proper documentary follow-up.

Next Steps

• Derogation effective as of 6 March 2026, according to the terms defined in the regulation
• Heightened controls expected on documentary compliance
• Review at the end of the granted period to assess possible extension or reversion to standard rules

Cette dérogation réduit les barrières à l'entrée pour les exportateurs caboverdiens tout en exigeant une vigilance accrue de la part des opérateurs européens. (This derogation reduces entry barriers for Cabo Verdean exporters while requiring increased vigilance from European operators.)