The European Union’s fishing fleet has seen its nominal capacity decline since the 2013 reform of the common fisheries policy (CFP), but imbalances persist between certain segments of the fleet and the fish resources available, according to a study published on 28 April by the European Commission.
Despite the steady decline in capacity indicators - gross tonnage (GT) and engine power (kW) - in the 22 coastal Member States since 2000, this reduction has not translated into an overall balance with fishing opportunities. Several segments continue to suffer from weak economic performance, often associated with poor stock levels.
The sector is facing major challenges, including climate change, biodiversity loss and marine pollution, which are affecting the productivity of ecosystems and the economic viability of fleets. At the same time, the energy transition and the modernisation of ships are deemed essential to improve safety, working conditions and the attractiveness of the profession.
The study stresses that the current capacity ceilings, based on the ‘entry-exit’ scheme, are criticised by the industry, which considers them a constraint on innovation and the renewal of an ageing fleet. It also notes that situations of imbalance vary greatly from one sea basin to another, depending on fisheries management regimes and economic or environmental factors.
Among their recommendations, the authors of the study advocate a more flexible approach to fleet renewal, a better distinction between capacity linked to catches and that intended for security or the energy transition, and a strengthening of management tools to avoid any increase in pressure on exploited stocks.
Link to the study: https://aeur.eu/f/lsq (Original version in French by Lionel Changeur)