European Parliament calls for urgent Common Fisheries Policy reform

The European Parliament has adopted a resolution calling for an urgent reform of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP). The resolution, passed with significant support, advocates for a balanced approach that gives equal weight to environmental, social, and economic sustainability standards.

Key proposals include the implementation of more transparent and objective criteria for fishing opportunities, taking into account the specific needs of different fleet segments, such as small-scale fisheries. The Parliament also emphasized the need to incentivize the use of selective, energy-efficient fishing gear to reduce habitat impact.

Regarding market organization, MEPs highlighted a competitive disadvantage for EU operators due to labeling disparities between EU and non-EU products. They recommended improved consumer information, including nutritional data like Omega-3 content, and a clear distinction between wild-caught and farmed seafood. The resolution also calls for the prohibition of false marketing regarding aquatic species and seeks reciprocity in standards within EU trade agreements.

Industry group Europêche has endorsed the move, stating that the current CFP is outdated and fails to address modern challenges such as Brexit, the energy crisis, and the need for fleet decarbonization.