MEPs questioned Commissioner-Designate for Fisheries, Costas Kadis on his vision for the Fisheries Portfolio including sustainability and economics
The European Parliament’s Committee on Fisheries convened this week to examine Cypriot candidate Costas Kadis’ qualifications and vision for the role of Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans.
Kadis, if confirmed, will oversee the EU’s fisheries and aquaculture sectors, where he aims to foster economic resilience, environmental sustainability, and stronger coastal communities underpinned by a robust blue economy.
In his opening address, Kadis pledged to make the EU’s fisheries and aquaculture sectors “sustainable, competitive and resilient.” His approach will leverage the findings of the current review of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP), which will culminate in a detailed report by the end of 2025. The review process, which includes extensive stakeholder consultation, may prompt legislative changes depending on its conclusions and the evolving needs of the EU fleet, Kadis noted.
Tackling the Challenge of Discards and Ensuring Quality Data
When questioned about the EU’s controversial landing obligation rules, Kadis underscored the need to tackle the issue of discards—a practice he said neither enhances profitability nor supports long-term environmental sustainability. He emphasised that quality data is key to enforcing effective management measures and accurately assessing stock levels, promising an approach that aligns ecological needs with economic feasibility.
Roadmap to Energy Transition by 2050
Kadis highlighted the nuanced differences in the challenges faced by large-scale and small-scale fisheries and vowed to provide an energy transition roadmap for fisheries and aquaculture by 2050. The roadmap, expected by the end of 2025, is set to outline steps for reducing carbon emissions within the industry, accounting for regional variations and technological capabilities. Kadis also addressed the pressing social issues of the sector, including skills shortages, ageing vessels, and the lack of generational renewal, pledging to support coastal communities through targeted initiatives.
European Oceans Pact to Address Broader Challenges
Drawing attention to a comprehensive framework, Kadis announced plans for a European Oceans Pact, to be presented in June 2025. This initiative will tackle industry-wide challenges such as gender imbalance, administrative burdens, and the need for fleet modernisation, positioning the Pact as a roadmap to promote sustainable, diverse, and well-supported fisheries communities across the EU.
Baltic Sea, Brexit and Relations with Third Countries
In response to questions about the deteriorating health of the Baltic Sea, Kadis proposed a “holistic approach” that engages both scientific and environmental experts. On Brexit and the looming 2026 renegotiation of fishing quotas with the UK, he committed to preserving EU vessels’ access to traditional fishing areas. He also pledged to combat illegal and unregulated fishing products and uphold the EU’s food autonomy, while ensuring that sustainable fisheries partnerships offer a level playing field, bringing third-country standards up to EU requirements.
Protecting Biodiversity as a Path to Economic Gains
When asked about balancing ecological priorities with economic benefits, Kadis supported science-based strategies for biodiversity conservation, which he linked directly to the economic interests of local fishing communities. He described protected marine areas as crucial for maintaining fish stocks and biodiversity, underscoring that they can also boost fishing revenues over the long term.
Next Steps in the Selection Process
Following Kadis’s hearing, the committee’s chair and political group coordinators will meet to assess his qualifications. Based on their recommendation, the Conference of Presidents, chaired by European Parliament President Roberta Metsola, will make the final decision on 21 November. If Kadis advances, the entire college of Commissioners will face a full vote by MEPs in a plenary session scheduled from 25-28 November in Strasbourg.
With an agenda that combines ecological care with a commitment to economic viability, Kadis appears prepared to steer the EU’s fisheries sector towards a more sustainable and profitable future, with both legislative updates and strategic partnerships at the core of his vision.
Source: Press Release