May 21, 2007

Europe urged to expand aquaculture activities

Europe could do more to develop its aquaculture industry, Fisheries and Maritime Affairs Commissioner Joe Borg said at a speech to EU officials last week.

Although current EU policies were improving the sustainability of the industry, more could be achieved, in the area of marketing and sale, for example, he said.

The industry needed to have a deeper understanding of the markets and a firmer grasp of the value chain so they can add value to the fisheries products, he said.

Calling for an assessment of strategy for the aquaculture sector, Borg added that the drive would aid the Commission in setting new initiatives on eco-labelling issues.

The department aims to find out what EU involvement is required to boost demand for aquaculture products and the regulations needed for sustainable aquaculture development.

A consultation paper proposed by the department would cover issues like the economic outlook for aquaculture, the environmental challenges facing the industry, new aquaculture species, market opportunities and the EU's support for sustainability.

Dr Borg said he is aware that aquaculture faces high environmental and health standards and noted the competition from developing countries such as Vietnam and Thailand.