The ATQs regulation for 2016-2018 has been published determining autonomous tariff quotas for key fish species for the supply of raw materials to the EU Fish processing sectors over the next three years.
But although EU Fish processors welcome continued access to vital raw material supplies, they said that opportunities have been missed in the regulation to support innovation and growth.
Guus Pastoor, AIPCE President, said: “Overall the industry welcomes this revised regulation which, we should not forget, is vital for the competitiveness of the sector. Besides, the external evaluation carried out for the Commission clearly demonstrated that the ATQs system generates added value for the EU economy.”
Following AIPCE evidence-based analysis, the regulation takes into account that quantities for the main species have maintained the levels necessary to meet consumer needs in coming years (Alaskan Pollock, cod, surimi, shrimps, hake, tuna loins) and some new quotas have been introduced (haddock, anchovies, prawn), in recognition of market developments.
But Mr Pastoor pointed out some chances have been lost in the process, including some species being kept out and new developments in the market being disregarded. For instance modified atmosphere packaging, which has been directly linked to progress in innovation, has not been introduced.
Despite this, AICPE said that the resulting agreement should be sufficient to ensure that the ATQs system does help to realise the full potential of the EU fish processing market.
Mr Pastoor added: “The 2015 AIPCE-CEP Finfish Study confirms the continuing high dependence of the EU market on imports and Member States have been responsive to this. The ATQs system is designed to allow the EU fish processing remain competitive. If this system meets the needs of the sector, it helps prevent the relocation of processing activities outside the EU.”
