EFCA adopts 2026–2030 work plan and also renewed Dr Susan Steele for a second mandate as the current term of office of the Executive Director
The European Fisheries Control Agency (EFCA) has adopted its Multiannual Work Programme for 2026–2030 and confirmed Executive Director Dr Susan Steele for a second term following its 45th Administrative Board meeting, held in Vigo on 23 October 2025.
The Board approved EFCA’s Single Programming Document (SPD), which sets out operational priorities and a 2026 budget of €31.6 million.
The plan defines how the agency will continue coordinating EU fisheries control and inspection operations, developing technological tools to improve compliance, and supporting international monitoring efforts.
Over the next five years, EFCA’s mission will remain centred on ensuring the uniform application of EU fisheries law, assisting Member States in implementing the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP), and maintaining a level playing field for the fishing sector.
EFCA said that coordination of control operations will continue through Joint Deployment Plans, supported by chartered aerial and maritime patrol assets. The agency will also implement a new Operational Training Strategy to strengthen inspection and monitoring capacity across Member States, and further enhance the integrated Fisheries Information Systems used by EU control authorities.
Internationally, EFCA will expand its partnerships through ongoing projects in West Africa (WASOP), the Western Indian Ocean (SWIOP), and Central Africa (ODEBAC). These programmes aim to strengthen regional monitoring, control, and surveillance, providing both operational and capacity-building support in the fight against illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing.
EFCA’s 2026 operations will also be shaped by the implementation of the revised Fisheries Control Regulation, which introduces new digital tools and traceability requirements. The agency’s strategic focus will align with EU ocean governance initiatives, including the Ocean Pact, to support sustainable resource management and effective enforcement.
Dr Susan Steele said the agency is “fully prepared to deliver on its objectives for the coming years, ensuring results are achieved with the highest standards of excellence and effectiveness”.
EFCA, established to coordinate fisheries control across EU Member States, plays a critical role in ensuring fair enforcement of conservation and management measures. Its work contributes directly to sustainable fisheries management and the long-term protection of European marine resources.
