Commissioner Kadis hosts dialogue on small-scale fisheries, addressing climate, market pressures, and high costs to ensure resilience
The Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans, Costas Kadis, hosted an implementation dialogue in Brussels today, 24 November 2025, dedicated entirely to Small-Scale and Coastal Fisheries (SSCF).
The high-level meeting brought together fishers, Fisheries Local Actions Groups (FLAGs), Advisory Councils, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), Member State representatives, industry stakeholders, and social partners to discuss practical solutions for the sector.
SSCF Recognised as Backbone of Coastal Communities
The Commissioner emphasised that small-scale and coastal fisheries are the backbone of Europe’s coastal communities. They play a vital role in sustaining local economies, preserving cultural heritage, and upholding sustainable fishing traditions across European sea basins.
The meeting forms part of the Commission’s commitment to seeking feedback from stakeholders to simplify and effectively implement European Union policies, a mandate outlined for the 2024-2029 College of Commissioners.
Vulnerable Sector Faces Mounting Economic and Climate Challenges
Despite their importance, the SSCF sector is currently facing an array of severe challenges that threaten both livelihoods and coastal resilience. These pressures have positioned the sector as one of the most vulnerable parts of the European Union fishing fleet.
Key challenges discussed include competition for limited maritime space, securing adequate access to fishing opportunities, the impact of climate change, soaring operational costs, the presence of invasive species, and fluctuating market demands.
To immediately address some of these issues, the European Commission recently published guidelines intended to help Member States provide enhanced support to small-scale fishers.
Policymakers and Stakeholders Seek Practical Solutions
The dialogue focused on the practical implementation of key European Union fishing-related policies with the aim of bolstering the sustainability, resilience, and long-term viability of SSCF. Attendees worked to build a shared understanding of existing implementation gaps and identify concrete follow-up actions to reinforce co-operation.
The meeting also explored the potential role of new technologies in strengthening the sustainability and competitiveness of small-scale and coastal fisheries. Furthermore, discussions focused on showcasing good practices and identifying opportunities for income diversification to increase the sector’s economic robustness.
Commissioner Kadis underscored the importance of the dialogue, stating: “Small-scale fishers are at the heart of our coastal communities. Today’s dialogue is an opportunity to listen to their realities and to work together on practical solutions that strengthen their resilience and ensure a sustainable future for this essential part of our maritime fabric.”
He concluded by thanking participants for their insights, affirming that the information is essential as the Commission works to strengthen this “cornerstone of our coastal economies.”
