European fishing companies are under severe pressure as fuel prices rise sharply. Industry leaders now call for urgent action from the European Commission to prevent vessels from stopping operations.
The warning comes from Europêche, which represents the European fishing sector. In a letter to EU Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans Costas Kadis, the organisation said many fleets face a critical economic situation as operating costs soar.
Fuel is one of the highest costs in fishing. Some vessels already run at a loss because fuel costs exceed the value of their catch.
Europêche urges rapid emergency support
Europêche has asked the European Commission to activate emergency support tools similar to those used during the 2022 energy crisis. The aim is to provide rapid relief to fishing companies without lengthy legislative delays.
The organisation proposes using crisis funds under the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF). It also suggests adapting State aid rules to allow Member States to provide targeted support to fishing fleets.
Another proposal is to calculate aid limits per vessel rather than per company. This would help operators who run several vessels.
Rising oil prices drive the problem
The surge in fuel costs is linked to geopolitical instability and rising global oil prices. These factors have pushed operating costs higher across the fishing sector.
Javier Garat, President of Europêche, warned that many vessels may stop fishing if prices stay high.
“The situation is becoming unsustainable for many fishing operators,” he said.
He added that a shutdown of vessels could affect jobs in coastal communities and disrupt seafood supply to European markets.
Industry also calls for long-term solutions
Beyond emergency help, Europêche also calls for structural measures to strengthen the sector. These include easier access to strategic fuel stocks in EU ports and support for lower-emission fuels such as HVO and FAME biodiesel.
The organisation also stresses the need for continued investment in energy efficiency and fleet modernisation. This could reduce fuel use and make fleets less exposed to volatile energy markets.