The Federation of European Aquaculture Producers (FEAP) has issued a stern warning that unless the European Union takes decisive action to prioritize food production, the aquaculture sector in Europe will continue to stagnate. This comes in response to critical reports from the European Court of Auditors (ECA) and the European Commission (EC) that highlighted the EU’s insufficient efforts in fostering growth within the aquaculture industry.
The ECA report, titled “Stagnating production and unclear results despite increased EU funding,” underscored the EU’s shortcomings in supporting the aquaculture sector, raising concerns about Europe falling behind other major producers like Norway and the UK.
In acknowledgment of the stagnant state of aquaculture in the EU, the EC defended its ongoing growth strategy, citing initiatives such as the European Maritime, Fisheries, and Aquaculture Fund, along with the 2021 aquaculture strategy. However, FEAP contends that the current situation can only be remedied with prompt and targeted actions.
FEAP identifies “ambition” and “cohesion” as key areas for intervention. The organization asserts that food production within the EU must be elevated to a status equivalent to environmental protection. It highlights that EU member states are grappling with overwhelming environmental policies, leaving little room for the development of aquaculture.
Addressing the need for cohesion, FEAP advocates for a Common Aquaculture Policy within the existing Common Fisheries Policy or incorporated into the Common Agricultural Policy. FEAP aligns with the ECA and EC in recognizing the absence of universally accepted indicators for assessing sustainable aquaculture development. However, FEAP proposes using a set of parameters jointly developed with the Aquaculture Stewardship Council as an official basis for judging sustainability.
Representing 24 national fish farming associations in 23 countries, including both EU and non-EU states, FEAP emphasizes the urgency of these actions. FEAP members collectively contribute to a total production of over 2.5 million tonnes, making their call for EU intervention a matter of significance for the future of European aquaculture.
