Press remarks by Executive Vice-President Fitto and Commissioner Kadis on Vision 2040 for a thriving fisheries and aquaculture sector

Today, the Commission approved the Vision 2040 for Fisheries and Aquaculture, including the EU Strategy for Fisheries External Action and the Energy Transition Roadmap.

First of all, I would like to thank Commissioner Kadis for the excellent work we have done together in preparing this important initiative.

The Vision sets out a long-term perspective, with concrete actions to support modernisation, innovation, generational renewal and the competitiveness of this sector.

Commissioner Kadis will present the package in greater detail.

I would like to focus on its broader strategic significance, particularly its territorial and geopolitical dimensions.

Fisheries and aquaculture are not only economic activities. They are essential to the identity, prosperity and the future of many European territories.

For our islands, coastal communities and outermost regions, this sector represents an important source of employment, economic and social cohesion.

Yet, this sector is facing particular difficulties such as falling stocks, high fuel prices, old fleet, generational renewal and uncertainty about the future of the profession.

These are even more acute for small-scale fishers.

Our objective is to create the conditions for people, especially young people, to build their future in these territories.

This means investment, better working conditions, new skills, innovation and economic opportunities.

It means ensuring that people can enjoy their Right to Stay, working and living where they feel at home.

Aquaculture and fisheries, face their own difficulties, but also share broader challenges: demographic change, climate pressures, technological transformation and global competition.

We need to address these common challenges while recognising territorial differences.

This is why the Vision recognises the important role of Member States, regional authorities and local communities in translating European priorities into concrete actions.