The European Commission’s proposal for the 2028–2034 EU budget has sparked concern and disappointment from Europe’s fishing sector.
A new plan aims to merge various funds into one large instrument, but industry leaders say it comes at the cost of the fisheries.
The fund, called the European Economic, Territorial, Social, Rural and Maritime Sustainable Prosperity and Security Fund, would absorb the existing European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF). But the fishing industry is upset that the word “fisheries” is even missing from the fund’s name.
Concern Over Merged Funding
The Commission says this plan will simplify the system and improve flexibility. But Europêche, the association representing EU fishing businesses, warns it will do the opposite for fishermen.
They say fisheries risk being “doubly absorbed”—first into broader funds, and then into general ocean projects that may not serve fishing directly.
Projects like offshore wind, ocean energy and desalination could now compete for the same money, despite having little to do with actual fishing.
Funding Cutbacks Amid Soaring Costs
The Commission’s new plan offers only €2 billion for fisheries over seven years. That’s down from €6.1 billion in the 2021–2027 period. This, despite the EU’s total budget growing from €1.2 to €2 trillion.
Europêche President Javier Garat said the plan is “a weakening of support” for a vital industry that’s already under pressure. Fishermen face rising fuel prices, global competition, staff shortages, and growing rules.
Uneven Support, Higher Food Prices
Worse, there are no clear rules for how member states should use the money—especially for larger fishing vessels. That could create unequal support across the EU, making competition unfair.
The fishing sector also warns of wider effects: lower EU seafood production, higher prices for consumers, and greater reliance on imports.
“This is not what we were promised,” said Europêche. The group is calling on EU lawmakers to rethink the plan and restore a dedicated fund for fisheries.