may 25, 2007

EU exploring further aquaculture possibilities

The European Commission has started a consultation exercise on developing aquaculture in the European Union.

The steady growth in the demand for fisheries products represents great potential for further development in aquaculture, the EC said.

The consultation aimed to discuss the level of sustainable development at the EU level.

The EC has published a detailed consultation paper on the Internet, soliciting feedback until 15 July 2007.

European Commissioner for Fisheries and Maritime Affairs Joe Borg said the EU aquaculture sector has many competitive advantages.

However, there are also challenges such as strict environmental and health standards, and increasing competition from third world producers.

Therefore, a strategy must be mapped out that can deliver the best possible growth, he said.

The Commission explored aquaculture development as early as 2002 seeking to create a framework to support the sustainable development of aquaculture with the help of structural funds, to stimulate research and innovation, and to ensure a high level of environmental, consumer and animal protection. Most of these actions have been launched, in particular through the European Fisheries Fund adopted in 2006.

The consultation paper published on the Internet would serve as a basis in the consultation meetings that would be organised with stakeholders in the coming months. This will be followed by a conference, to be held before the end of this year, on the opportunities for the development of aquaculture in Europe.