Committee chair Carmen Crespo Díaz (EPP, ES) said: “The current geopolitical context, especially instability in the Middle East and rising oil prices, is having a direct impact on the European fisheries sector. Fuel represents one of the largest operating costs of the fleet, so the continued increase in prices is putting at risk the economic viability of many vessels.
If this situation continues, many vessels could be forced to halt their activity, with serious consequences for employment in coastal communities and for the supply of seafood on the European market.
That is why we are asking the European Commission to swiftly activate emergency support mechanisms, such as the crisis and transition temporary framework, similar to those used during the 2022 energy crisis.
Among the possible measures, we must mobilise the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF) crisis instruments so that we can immediately support the fleets most affected by the exceptional increase in fuel prices. It is also proposed to temporarily adapt the State aid rules, so that member states can urgently support their fleets. In parallel, exceptional market measures could be activated within the Common Fisheries Policy to mitigate the economic impact of this situation.
Beyond the emergency, progress is needed on structural solutions that strengthen the sector’s resilience, such as facilitating access to strategic fuel stocks in European ports.”
Background
On 28 February, the US and Israel started a joint military operation against the Iranian regime. The passage of vessels with fuel through the Strait of Hormuz has been affected, resulting in oil price increases.
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