On Monday 30 March, the European Commission will update the European Fisheries Ministers on the conclusions of a dialogue on small-scale and coastal fisheries organised on 24 November 2025 with professionals from the sector, NGOs and institutional representatives.
Chaired by the Commissioner for Fisheries, Costas Kadis, this exchange highlighted the strong pressures weighing on this segment of the fishing industry, which represents 76% of the EU fleet, but only 6.6% of catches, according to a note from the European Commission (see EUROPE 13583/6). Small-scale fisheries remains structurally fragile, with almost a quarter of vessels operating at a loss.
Dialogue participants highlighted the impact of climate change, stock displacement, invasive species, high energy prices and increased competition for maritime space. There was broad consensus on the need to innovate, improve working conditions and encourage generational renewal.
Serious concerns were also expressed about the distribution of fishing opportunities, which was deemed to be unequal between Member States. The stakeholders called for better transparency, the integration of social and environmental criteria and fair access to coastal areas, particularly within the 12 nautical mile zone.
There was broad support for a binding EU Action Plan for small-scale fisheries, complemented by clearer rules in the Common Fisheries Policy and dedicated market measures. Stakeholders have also called for better access to European funding.
Read the note: https://aeur.eu/f/lc2 (Original version in French by Lionel Changeur)