June 11, 2018

Black Sea countries ink 10-year pledge for sustainable aquaculture

The European Commission (EC) and the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean (GFCM) have issued a joint declaration encompassing a 10-year pledge to rebuild the fish stocks in the Black Sea and boost sustainable aquaculture.

"Today's (June 7) declaration is a historic step toward more sustainable fisheries and aquaculture in the Black Sea", said Environment, Fisheries and Maritime Affairs Commissioner Karmenu Vella.

The declaration sets out a detailed work plan for the next 10 years, which includes actions to improve fisheries data collection; establish a multi-annual fisheries management plan and marine protected areas; develop a culture of compliance and eradicate illegal fishing; and support small fishermen and aquaculture producers.

The declaration, called Sofia Declaration, was signed by the EC and Black Sea ministerial representatives along the Black Sea coastline and beyond covering both riparian states and non-riparian states with interest in aquaculture: Bulgaria, Romania, Georgia, Moldova and Turkey.

Over 23,500 persons are directly employed on fishing vessels in the Black Sea, whilst many more indirect jobs depend on the fishing sector. At least 8,700 aquaculture farms generate direct and indirect jobs to more than 39,000 people in this area.