Greek fisheries and aquaculture push for stronger EU support amid Turkish illegal fishing and aging fleet

Minister Margaritis Schoinas said Greek aquaculture is a national champion, highlighting a sector that now operates about 285 marine fish farms, produces over 120,000 tonnes of fish a year and generates roughly €670 million in value, supporting more than 10,000 jobs, most of which are in island and coastal communities. About 80 % of the production is exported, placing Greece among the leading Mediterranean producers.

In a parliamentary hearing, MP Manolis Chnaris called for immediate EU assistance, noting that the Greek fishing sector faces soaring fuel costs, an ageing fleet with fuel‑inefficient engines, and systematic illegal fishing by Turkish vessels in the Aegean that harms fish stocks and fishermen’s incomes. He also warned about Turkish imports of non‑EU‑compliant species such as gilt‑head and sea bass, and urged the EU to deploy robust monitoring, traceability and sanctions against violations. Chnaris demanded that fishers be included in the design of Marine Protected Areas, highlighted the threat of invasive species like the lionfish, and referenced a Cyprus programme that could be replicated in Greece. Both officials stressed the need for coordinated European mechanisms to sustain the sector’s economic and social role.