Pictured: A French fishing boat returns to harbour.
Photo: Adobe Stock.
Leading European fisheries and aquaculture organisations have jointly called on EU policymakers to maintain and strengthen a dedicated fund for the sector in the upcoming Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), the long-term budget plan of the European Union.
In a letter sent to top EU leaders, the signatories warn against merging the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF) into a broader funding structure, arguing that such a move would undermine the sector’s capacity to meet its specific challenges.
The letter, addressed to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, European Council President António Costa, and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, argues for the essential role of fisheries and aquaculture in ensuring food security, supporting coastal communities, and achieving environmental sustainability.
"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 states.
"A single fund risks limiting flexibility and failing to recognize the sector’s specific needs," it argues.
In the joint letter, the organisations stress that aquatic foods are among the healthiest and most environmentally friendly sources of animal protein, offering a low carbon footprint and supporting balanced diets.
However, they caution that the sector faces rising production costs, global competition, challenges in recruiting younger workers, and increasing regulatory and spatial constraints, particularly for small-scale coastal fisheries.
The signatories are calling for a "reinforced and independent fund" for EU fisheries and aquaculture, with increased budget allocations. They urge stronger financial support to ensure sustainability and economic resilience, and to continue improving working and living conditions.
The group is also advocating for targeted investments to help the sector meet environmental and climate goals, including decarbonisation, and a clear commitment to food security and supply chain resilience, ensuring that EU fisheries and aquaculture remain a strategic priority in the next MFF.
"The EU must recognize the unique conditions of our industry and maintain a dedicated fund to ensure its sustainable future. A well-funded, independent fisheries and aquaculture policy is essential for Europe’s economy, environment, and food security," the letter concludes.
The letter is co-signed by representatives from EU seafood, fisheries and aquaculture organisations AIPCE-CEP, which represents the interests of fish processors and traders in the EU, EAPO, the European Association of Fish Producers Organisations, Europêche, the representative body of the fishing industry in the EU, and FEAP, the Federation of European Aquaculture Producers.
Other signatories include Copa-Cogeca, two umbrella organisations representing European farmers and agri-cooperatives, and ETF, the European Transport Workers' Federation.
