The European Association of Fish Producers Organisations (EAPO) has voted to become an international non-profit from 1 January 2026. The move, agreed at its annual meeting in Killybegs, Ireland, is aimed at giving Europe’s fishing industry a stronger voice in Brussels and beyond.

New status for new challenges

EAPO represents 29 producer organisations across 12 EU states, with 4,000 vessels, 2 million tonnes of landings and €2.1 billion in first sale value. Its leaders said the change of legal form under Belgian law will allow closer work with scientists, global partners and EU institutions.

Outgoing president Esben Sverdrup-Jensen of Denmark said 2025 had been “particularly intense” at the EU and international level. “Our new status will strengthen our role as the main voice of EU fisheries,” he said, according to a press release.

New president elected

The meeting also saw elections. Sverdrup-Jensen stepped down after his two-year mandate. He was thanked for his commitment and replaced by Jean-Marie Robert of Les Pêcheurs de Bretagne.

Members praised Sverdrup-Jensen’s leadership and underlined the need for unity as the sector faces political and environmental challenges.

Policy debates in Killybegs

Delegates debated hot topics, including the EU’s Ocean Pact and its planned Ocean Act, which could reshape marine policy. They also discussed the review of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP), calling for reform as more fish stocks face zero-catch advice.

The controversial EU control regulation and its rules for implementation were another focal point after a turbulent summer.

Focus on seafood’s future.

EAPO also highlighted the EU Seafood Alliance (EUSeA), which marked its first anniversary in 2025. Together with partners Europêche, AIPCE-CEP and FEAP, the alliance is pushing for an EU Action Plan for Blue Foods to promote sustainable seafood.

The Killybegs meeting also showcased Donegal’s fishing industry, with local seafood and even a visit to an Irish whiskey distillery. Local politicians joined, showing strong ties between fisheries and coastal communities.