European Commission unveils Vision 2040 for fisheries and aquaculture

The European Commission has introduced the ‘Vision 2040 for Fisheries and Aquaculture’ strategy, aimed at securing the livelihoods of communities dependent on the sector. The industry employs over 200,000 people across the EU, including approximately 124,500 in fisheries and 76,000 in aquaculture, with additional employment in processing, wholesale, and retail.

The strategy focuses on the entire value chain to provide business predictability and protect aquatic ecosystems. Key priorities include supporting healthy ecosystems, managing the energy transition, securing supply chains, and boosting demand. To address challenges such as climate change, volatile energy costs, and an aging workforce, the Commission plans to facilitate access to financing and promote technological innovation.

To attract younger generations to the blue economy, the Commission will present a specific strategy for generational renewal in 2027. This initiative seeks to create profitable businesses and modern working conditions. The transition will require significant investment, with the Commission proposing a minimum allocation of 2 billion euros for core Common Fisheries Policy functions, supplemented by private capital.