May 7, 2024

European Commission issues guidance to boost sustainable aquaculture growth

The European Commission has released guidance aimed at assisting member states in promoting sustainable aquaculture, responding to calls from producers to ease the administrative burden of establishing and operating sites within the union, Fish Farmer reported.

Comprising two working documents, the move aims to unlock the significant potential of fish farming, which has not seen growth comparable to other regions worldwide. Currently, aquaculture only contributes to 10% of fish and seafood consumption in the EU and less than 2% of global production.

These documents tackle two key obstacles hindering aquaculture growth across many EU member states. They address the complexities of regulatory frameworks and administrative procedures, along with challenges related to access to space and water necessary for marine aquaculture development.

Proposals outlined include streamlining regulatory and administrative frameworks, as well as ensuring adequate planning and allocation of space for marine aquaculture.

The Commission said that these documents consolidate best practices and offer concrete examples of their application in some EU Member States. Additionally, they examine good practices from neighbouring jurisdictions like Norway and the UK, given the significance of their aquaculture sectors and their proximity to the EU.

The Commission anticipates that these documents will assist EU member states in achieving their objectives outlined in their multi-annual national strategic plans for aquaculture and their national programmes implementing the European Maritime, Fisheries, and Aquaculture Fund.

Later this year, the Commission plans to publish a document focusing on access to space and water for freshwater and land-based aquaculture.

-      Fish Farmer