Italy calls for urgent aid for fishing and agri-food sectors

Italian agricultural and fishing representatives are calling for urgent intervention to combat rising operational costs. Legacoop Agroalimentare e Pesca Sicilia has expressed deep concern regarding the deteriorating economic conditions for agri-food and fishing enterprises, specifically citing the impact of rising fuel and energy costs on production, transport, and marketing.

Legacoop has urged both national and regional governments to implement accessible support measures and has advised against road blockades that could paralyze Sicilian infrastructure. The organization emphasizes that fuel is an essential factor for the sector's survival rather than an accessory cost.

On the international stage, Italian Agriculture Minister Francesco Lollobrigida has called for a “decisive change of course” in European Union fisheries policies. Speaking at the Agrifish Council in Brussels, Lollobrigida noted that since 2013, the competitiveness of European fleets, particularly the Italian one, has declined. He highlighted a significant drop in the number of Italian fishermen and a decrease in catch volumes and product value. The Minister is advocating for investments in fleet renewal, worker safety, and a rejection of further income cuts for fishermen.