Crespo Díaz urges the EU Commission to activate emergency supports as rising fuel costs threaten fleet viability and coastal employment.
Committee Calls for Immediate Crisis Response
The Chair of the European Parliament’s Committee on Fisheries has called on the European Commission to activate the EU’s crisis and transition temporary framework in response to soaring fuel prices driven by escalating conflict in the Middle East.
Carmen Crespo Díaz warned that geopolitical instability and rising oil prices are placing severe pressure on the economic viability of the European fishing fleet.
Rising Fuel Costs Threaten Fleet Survival
“The current geopolitical context, especially instability in the Middle East and rising oil prices, is having a direct impact on the European fisheries sector,” said Crespo Díaz.
“Fuel represents one of the largest operating costs of the fleet, so the continued increase in prices is putting at risk the economic viability of many vessels.
“If this situation continues, many vessels could be forced to halt their activity, with serious consequences for employment in coastal communities and for the supply of seafood on the European market.”
Call to Activate Crisis Mechanisms
Crespo Díaz urged the Commission to activate emergency mechanisms previously used during the 2022 energy crisis.
“That is why we are asking the European Commission to swiftly activate emergency support mechanisms, such as the crisis and transition temporary framework, similar to those used during the 2022 energy crisis.”
She stressed that the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF) should be mobilised immediately to support the fleets most exposed to fuel price shocks.
State Aid Flexibility and Market Measures Proposed
Among the measures proposed, Crespo Díaz called for temporary adjustments to State aid rules so member states can offer rapid financial support to their fleets.
“In parallel, exceptional market measures could be activated within the Common Fisheries Policy to mitigate the economic impact of this situation,” she said.
Structural Solutions Needed Beyond the Emergency
While urgent intervention is the priority, Crespo Díaz emphasised the need for longer-term resilience measures.
“Beyond the emergency, progress is needed on structural solutions that strengthen the sector’s resilience, such as facilitating access to strategic fuel stocks in European ports.”
Background to the Crisis
Fuel price volatility has worsened since 28 February, when the US and Israel launched a joint military operation against the Iranian regime. The operation has disrupted the passage of fuel shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, driving further price increases and intensifying pressure on the European fishing industry.
