Together with other key stakeholders in the fishery industry – the Association of National Organizations of Fishing Enterprises in the EU (EUROPÊCHE), the European Agri-Cooperatives (Cocega) and the European Association of Fish Producers Organisations (EAPO) – the ETF asks the European Commission to adopt emergency measures to alleviate the increased fuel prices’ pressure on the sector. We believe such actions could easily lead to jobs and income losses since some vessels are already docked in the ports.
The conflict in Ukraine has led quickly to many consequences in Europe, primarily the sharp increase of energy costs. The fuel price reached an all-time high and aggravated the sector’s economic situation, facing difficulties even before the international situation escalated.
In the letter we addressed to the EU Commissioner for the environment, oceans and fisheries, Virginijus Sinkevičius, we presented our main concerns regarding the significant impact of increased fuel prices on the fisheries sector.
We believe all possible efforts should be made to allow fisheries operations to carry on and continue providing healthy food to the European citizens.