Ahead of European Council and Parliament discussions on the future of the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), EU policymakers have been issued with the call from leading industry bodies to maintain and strengthen the current fund for fisheries and aquaculture.
They have also been reminded of the sectors’ critical role in food security, economic stability and environmental sustainability.
The united call, made by AIPCE-CEP, Copa-Cogeca, EAPO, Europêche, ETF and FEAP, urges EU leaders to act decisively in support of the industries, with the insistence that they cannot be measured only in economic terms.
They state: “The fleet, aquaculture producers, processors and traders supply one of the healthiest animal foods with the lowest carbon footprint. This makes aquatic foods an optimal choice for balanced diets while delivering on food security and climate protection. However, they face unique challenges that cannot be addressed through a broad, single fund covering multiple industries.”
In a letter addressed to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, European Council President António Costa, and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, the industry bodies expressed concerns about proposals to integrate the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF) into a single, overarching funding structure. They argue that such an approach would undermine the sector’s ability to address its specific challenges.
They also highlight the European Commission’s own findings that fishers, aquaculture producers and processors face rising costs, global competition, and difficulties in attracting younger generations. Also, that small-scale coastal fisheries, in particular, struggle with wages that are significantly lower than other sectors.
It is further highlighted that they face increasing environmental regulations and competition for maritime space.
“Fisheries and aquaculture and the processing thereof, are not just economic activities; they are deeply connected to Europe’s coastal and rural communities. The structural and natural differences across regions demand a targeted financial approach,” the letter stated. “A single fund risks limiting flexibility and failing to recognise the sector’s specific needs.”
The fisheries and aquaculture organisations are therefore calling for:
- A reinforced and independent fund for fisheries and aquaculture with increased budgetary allocations
- Stronger financial support to ensure sustainability, economic resilience and continue improving work and living conditions
- Targeted investments to help the sector meet environmental and climate objectives, including decarbonisation goals
- A commitment to food security and supply chain resilience, ensuring that EU fisheries and aquaculture remain a priority in the next MFF
“The EU must recognise the unique conditions of our industry and maintain a dedicated fund to ensure its sustainable future,” the letter concluded. “A well-funded, independent fisheries and aquaculture policy is essential for Europe’s economy, environment, and food security.”
