Denmark’s two largest fishing organisations have raised alarm over a new EU plan that would merge fisheries funding with other funds. They fear the move will cut clarity and weaken support for the sector.
The Danish Fishermen’s Association (DFPO) and the Danish Pelagic Producers’ Organisation (DPPO) say the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF) will be closed in its current form.
Instead, the money will be placed inside a larger National and Regional Partnership Fund for 2028–2034.
Fear of losing focus on fisheries
The groups argue that fisheries could lose priority under this broader structure. “It seems as if the fishing sector is being pushed aside,” the organisations said in their response to the government.
They highlight that the EU’s Ocean Pact had promised support for greener vessels and modern fleets. Instead of receiving more substantial funding, they now face the risk of increased bureaucracy and reduced transparency.
Danish fleet already under pressure
Denmark already spends less EU money on fisheries than most other member states. This, the groups say, harms both innovation and competitiveness.
They warn that Danish fishermen are falling behind their rivals in other EU countries, and even more so compared to fleets from outside the Union. Without targeted support, it will be harder to make fishing both climate-friendly and profitable.
Call for early dialogue with the government.
DFPO and DPPO urge the Danish government to begin talks now about how much of the new EU funds should be earmarked for fisheries. They want money directed towards fleet renewal, energy-efficient vessels, and support for coastal towns where fishing remains vital.
They also emphasise that funding rules must be fair and transparent, ensuring that sanctions are proportionate and do not act as a barrier to investment.
Hope for stronger cooperation
The two organisations welcome the EU’s highlighting the role of producer groups in the new plan. They see this as recognition of the work done in recent years to strengthen market organisation and secure fairer prices for fish.
DFPO and DPPO conclude that they are ready for dialogue and cooperation, but underline that time is short if Denmark wants to secure a strong fishing industry in the years ahead.