Brexit latest: Falklands fishermen are threatened by no deal Brexit (Image: GETTY )
The Falkland Islands currently enjoy tariff-free access to the EU’s single market because of its status as a self-governing British territory. But if Britain does not secure a free trade deal and falls back on to World Trade Organisation rules, minimum tariffs of between six and 18 percent would automatically apply to its fish exports.
The British overseas territory’s economy is based largely on fishing, with the industry accounting for 40 percent of its income.
The vast majority of catches (94 percent) landed by Falklands fishermen are sold to the EU after being unloaded at ports in Spain.
Teslyn Barkman, head of natural resources management and Brexit issues for the Falklands government, said: "It is critically important for us to maintain this tariff-free access," adding that it is even a "life and death" situation for the local economy.
Doryteuthis gahi squid are fished mainly by trawlers registered in the Falklands and owned jointly by Falklands and European companies
