Shaping 2040: EFFOP weighs in on the EU’s Vision 2040 for fisheries and aquaculture

EFFOP has submitted its contribution to the European Commission’s Call for Evidence on the Vision 2040 for Fisheries and Aquaculture. The Vision aims to establish a long-term, holistic framework for the future of European fisheries and aquaculture. It seeks to strengthen food security, safeguard marine resources, and support innovation, competitiveness, and the green and digital transition across the sector.

EFFOP welcomes the initiative and emphasize that:

A Vision 2040 must include the entire blue value chain

The Vision 2040 for fisheries and aquaculture must recognise and integrate the full blue value chain, including the processing industries, and ensure that fisheries and aquaculture are integrated into EU´s broader food policy framework.

 Circular use of marine resources should be a core pillar of the Vision

The Vision 2040 must have a strong and explicit policy focus on circularity and resource efficiency as key drivers for reducing environmental impacts, while ensuring the long-term sustainability and competitiveness of the EU fisheries and aquaculture sectors.

 A healthy ocean is a precondition for blue food production

The Vision 2040 must address both marine and land-based drivers of environmental degradation, ensuring that measures to protect ocean health are effective, balanced and aligned with sustainable food production objectives.

The EU has a unique opportunity to position itself as a global frontrunner by setting ambitious and forward-looking objectives and ensuring a coherent approach across industries and policy areas. By recognising the full blue value chain, promoting circular and resource-efficient production, and integrating fisheries and aquaculture more firmly within the EUs broader food policy framework, the Vision can advance the role of blue foods in delivering sustainable, resilient and competitive food systems.

For EFFOP’s full response, please follow this link.