The UK and EU have signalled a renewed commitment to cooperation on fisheries, as policymakers and industry stakeholders met in London to discuss shared priorities for the sector in a post-Brexit landscape.
At a meeting of the All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Fisheries on 11 March, European Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans Costas Kadis joined UK parliamentarians and industry representatives for what participants described as a constructive and forward-looking exchange.
Held at Fishmongers’ Hall, the discussion focused on sustainability, governance, and the long-term resilience of fishing communities.
“The sustainable management of ocean space is a global necessity – and only by working together, including through strong EU-UK cooperation, can we ensure that our seas remain healthy, our resources protected and our coastal communities thrive,” said Kadis.
The talks highlighted how, despite operating under separate regulatory frameworks since Brexit, the UK and EU remain closely linked through shared marine resources and environmental challenges.
Both sides emphasised the importance of maintaining open dialogue to ensure effective management of fisheries and ocean space.
APPG co-chair Alistair Carmichael MP outlined ongoing work on a UK fisheries Action Plan aimed at strengthening the sector’s contribution to food security and regional economies.
In parallel, Kadis updated attendees on the EU’s forthcoming European Ocean Pact, which seeks to better align ocean-related policies across member states while reinforcing cooperation with external partners, including the UK.
The meeting reinforced a shared recognition that collaboration, rather than divergence, will play a critical role in securing a sustainable and prosperous future for fisheries on both sides of the Channel.
