The EU Fisheries Committee and Commissioner Kadis along with Danish Fisheries Miniser, Jacob Jensen, during their visit Denmark
European Parliament fisheries delegation visits Skagen and Hirtshals to observe Danish sector’s contribution to sustainable blue growth
A high-profile delegation from the European Parliament’s Fisheries Committee, including EU Fisheries Commissioner Costas Kadis and Danish Minister for Fisheries Jacob Jensen, visited Denmark this week to explore sustainable practices and challenges facing the country’s fishing and processing industries.
The official visit began in Skagen, where members boarded the fishing vessel S 486 Sajoni and were served freshly caught sea-boiled shrimp from the Skagerrak. The following morning, the delegation visited Hirtshals Fish Auction, welcomed by auctioneer Finn Møller. Commissioner Kadis and Minister Jensen ceremonially rang the auction bell to open the day’s trading.
The visit also included a tour of Prøvetanken in Hirtshals for demonstrations of innovative fishing gear, with particular focus on trawl door testing, and continued at FF Skagen—one of Europe’s leading producers of marine ingredients.
At FF Skagen, the delegation observed state-of-the-art, fully traceable production of fishmeal and fish oil, highlighting Denmark’s global leadership in the sector. The industry primarily uses short-lived species like sprat, sandeel, and blue whiting, all fished under sustainable regimes.
Circular Economy and Transparent Oversight at the Forefront
Marine Ingredients Denmark emphasised its commitment to circular economy principles, noting that approximately 25% of raw materials now derive from offcuts and side streams of the human consumption fish industry—reducing waste and maximising catch utilisation.
The industry also showcased its species control and weighing procedures, developed collaboratively with authorities and research institutions. Independent, third-party inspection services ensure transparency and accuracy at landings, building trust among fishermen, processors, and regulators.
Policy Inspiration and Concerns Over CO₂ Tax
Marine Ingredients Denmark urged EU policymakers to consider the Danish sector as a model for responsible, high-value blue economy development. Delegates were warned, however, that national policies such as Denmark’s proposed CO₂ tax could unintentionally drive landings to non-EU ports like Norway—undermining local supply chains.
“There’s real concern that if action isn’t taken to protect domestic landings, we risk weakening the integrity of the entire blue value chain,” said one industry representative.
The delegation also expressed shared concern over marine pollution, especially persistent pollutants like PFAS. Danish stakeholders called on the Commission to take firmer action at source—particularly targeting industrial emissions—to preserve ocean health.
Danish Fisheries at the Heart of Coastal Life
In his remarks, Fisheries Minister Jacob Jensen stated: “In Denmark, we can stand tall and be proud of our fishing industry. It’s an essential part of our coastal identity and a model of low-climate-impact food production. This industry must be developed—not dismantled.”
The trip concluded with a reception at Christiansborg hosted by former Fisheries Committee Vice Chair Søren Gade, now Chairman of the Danish Parliament.
The visit underscored the importance of maintaining a resilient, innovative, and sustainable fishing sector as a pillar of Europe’s food security and blue economy future.
Source: Various
