Marine Ingredients Denmark has submitted a formal response to the Danish government on the EU bioeconomy strategy and the work programme for the EU Council presidency in the first half of 2026. The submission was sent to the Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Fisheries on 13 January 2026.
More stories about Marine Ingredients Denmark
The industry group welcomes the strategy’s stronger focus on the blue bioeconomy. It calls for the fisheries and processing sectors to be fully involved in implementing the plan.
Support for the blue bioeconomy
Marine Ingredients Denmark says the strategy rightly recognises fisheries, aquaculture and marine biomass as key parts of the EU bioeconomy. The organisation highlights fishmeal and fish oil as essential inputs for feed and food chains.
Danish production is based on short-lived fish species such as sprat, sandeel and blue whiting. More than 25% of the raw material comes from fish processing by-products, reducing waste and supporting a circular economy.
Economic weight of the sector
The sector purchases approximately EUR 160 million in fish annually from Danish and foreign vessels. In 2024, exports of fishmeal and fish oil exceeded EUR 800 million. These products accounted for 22% of the total value of Danish fish exports.
Marine Ingredients Denmark says this shows the blue value chain is both export-strong and resource-efficient.
Calls linked to EU presidency plans
The organisation also comments on the presidency’s work programme for early 2026. It supports plans to discuss EU fisheries funding and a review of the Common Fisheries Policy.
It stresses that fishing opportunities should continue to follow ICES scientific advice.
It also urges progress on coastal state agreements for mackerel, herring, and blue whiting, warning that the lack of such agreements threatens sustainability certification and market access.