EU fishing industry challenges red-listing of mackerel, citing scientific advice and calling for reversal of NGO downgrades
Industry Denounces Mackerel Downgrade as Unjustified
Two of Europe’s leading fishing organisations have launched a stinging rebuke against the recent red-listing of Northeast Atlantic mackerel by seafood sustainability guides. Europêche and the European Association of Fish Producers Organisations (EAPO) argue the downgrade by the UK’s Marine Conservation Society and Dutch NGO GoodFish unfairly penalises EU fleets that are operating within scientifically advised catch limits.
The NGOs cite the absence of a Coastal States agreement on mackerel quota-sharing as the basis for the downgrade. However, Europêche and EAPO insist the biological status of the stock remains sound, with the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) setting a 2025 catch limit of 576,958 tonnes and confirming the stock is not overfished.
EU Fleets Paying the Price for Other Nations’ Overfishing
Industry leaders stress that while the EU has maintained its catch limits in line with the last recognised international agreement, other nations have unilaterally hiked their quotas—some by as much as 55%. “The EU fleet is effectively being punished for the failings of others,” said Tim Heddema, spokesperson for EAPO.
“This is a blunt and unjust tool,” he added. “NGO ratings are undermining responsible operators and emboldening the real culprits. This harms not just fishermen, but also the scientific credibility of these ratings.”
Threat to Retail Supply Chains and Coastal Economies
The red-listing could have far-reaching commercial implications, particularly in Northern Europe, where many retailers rely on these guides for procurement decisions. A red rating can prompt sourcing bans, even if the stock is biologically healthy.
“Thousands of jobs along the EU seafood supply chain are at risk due to these flawed assessments,” said Heddema. “Retailers must look beyond simplistic red flags and engage with the actual science.”
The North Atlantic Pelagic Advocacy Group (NAPA)—a coalition of major buyers and processors—has stated it will suspend mackerel sourcing if no international quota deal is achieved by May 2026.
NGOs Criticised for Lack of Transparency and Nuance
Europêche and EAPO also raised concerns over the opaque and unaccountable nature of NGO assessments. “These organisations operate without legal responsibility and offer no appeals process,” said the statement. “They apply a one-size-fits-all rating that fails to differentiate between fleets that adhere to quotas and those that don’t.”
The industry has called for a more balanced and scientifically credible approach, urging NGOs to consult with fishery scientists and engage with sector stakeholders before issuing ratings that can devastate livelihoods.
Demand for Diplomacy, Not Division
While both organisations support the urgent need for a comprehensive international agreement on mackerel, they warned against turning the species into collateral damage amid political stalemates.
“We need pressure on those flouting the rules—not the fleets doing the right thing,” said Heddema. “Constructive diplomacy and science-based management are the only viable path forward.”
In conclusion, Europêche and EAPO reiterated their commitment to sustainable fishing and responsible trade.
“Sustainability must be achieved through cooperation, not condemnation,” they said. “We stand ready to work with all partners—NGOs, governments, and retailers—to safeguard both our ocean resources and the communities who depend on them.”
Source: Press Release