A routine patrol by the Danish Fisheries Agency uncovers violations leading to confiscation of illegal fishing gear and catch worth €107,000
The Danish fishing industry, severely impacted by Brexit, is now looking forward with renewed hope as Esben Sverdrup-Jensen, CEO of the Danish Pelagic Producers Organisation (DPPO), praises the Fisheries Commission’s vision for the future of fishing.
The loss of quota values exceeding DKK 1 billion (€134 million) to the UK has led to a significant decline in revenue opportunities for vessels, processing companies, and the approximately 16,000 individuals employed in the sector.
Sverdrup-Jensen emphasised the urgent need for increased value creation within the industry: “For Danish fishing to develop post-Brexit, we must enhance value creation across the entire value chain. As Dalgas suggested after the losses in 1864, what is lost externally must be gained internally.”
Despite having one of the world’s most modern and energy-efficient pelagic fishing fleets, the Danish fishing sector faces legislative barriers that hinder growth and development. These barriers require political intervention, which is why the establishment of an impartial Fisheries Commission and its recent recommendations are seen as crucial steps forward.
The Fisheries Commission’s vision for the future of fishing aims to align the industry with other sectors, operating under normal market conditions. This vision is articulated in the commission’s 17 + 2 expert recommendations, which will serve as the foundation for upcoming negotiations on a new political agreement.
Troels J. Hegland and Peter Grønkjær of the Fisheries Commission highlighted this vision in a recent article, stressing the need for fisheries to operate under conditions similar to other industries. DPPO has long advocated for reforming fisheries legislation to remove outdated special regulations and create a framework for green transition and competitive development in Danish fisheries.
DPPO’s vision includes achieving climate neutrality by 2040, supporting continued innovation in sustainable solutions, and promoting a healthier marine environment for future generations. However, this vision can only be realized with political commitment to change current rules and legislation that hinder capital generation for new green vessels, block generational transitions, and disincentivize selective fishing practices. Additionally, current regulations make it challenging for women to establish themselves in the sector.
Pelagic fishing, with its low climate footprint, is poised to address global food challenges if conducted correctly. Up-to-date and competitive framework conditions, alongside a departure from obsolete special rules, are essential for pelagic fishing to reach its full potential as a leader in sustainable and climate-neutral food production.
The Fisheries Commission has paved the way with its expert recommendations. It is now up to politicians to turn this vision into reality. As Sverdrup-Jensen passes the baton to Mads Stadum from Jyske Bank in Skagen, the industry waits for decisive political action to secure its future.
Source: Press Release