Spain’s Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries, Luis Planas has urged the EU to rewrite the Common Fisheries Policy, warning current rules ignore profits, ageing fleets and mounting pressure on fishing industry
Spain Calls for Overhaul of EU Fisheries Framework
Luis Planas, Spain’s Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, has called for a revision of the Common Fisheries Policy, arguing that the framework introduced in 2013 no longer reflects current realities facing the fishing sector.
Speaking at an informal meeting of EU fisheries ministers in Nicosia, he said that “this Europe and this world are not the same as they were ten years ago, so it is necessary to adapt fisheries policy to the new challenges”.
His intervention comes as the European Commission continues its formal evaluation of the CFP, a process that has prompted submissions from Member States, industry representatives and stakeholders across the EU. Spain has been heavily involved, with more than 20% of contributions to the review originating from Spanish interests.
Profitability and Funding Brought into Focus
While acknowledging that the CFP has delivered improvements in sustainability, Planas signalled that the current balance of the policy is under scrutiny.
He stated that “progress towards achieving sustainable fishing has been very important in the European Union this decade”, but added that fishing must be considered in terms of “its contribution to food security”.
This reflects a shift towards economic concerns within the policy debate. Spain is pressing for increased financial support under the next EU budget cycle, particularly through a strengthened European Maritime Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund, warning that funding levels will be critical to the future of the fishing sector and coastal communities.
In commenting on the European Commission’s evaluation report, Planas welcomed recognition of the CFP’s role in conserving fish stocks but questioned whether its limitations could be attributed solely to implementation, pointing instead to wider external pressures.
Fleet Modernisation and Policy Direction
A central issue raised by Spain is the condition of the EU fleet. Planas said that “we are working with very old vessels, and we must have a more decarbonised, safer, and more attractive fleet for young people”.
The call for fleet renewal is linked to broader demands for policy flexibility, improved scientific input, and continued alignment with sustainability objectives.
The review of the CFP is taking place against a backdrop of wider pressures on the fishing sector, including changing stock distribution, climate impacts, and increased competition for marine space.
Mediterranean Cited as Evidence of Progress
Later in the day, Planas is due to attend the MedFish4Ever Ministerial Conference, where discussions will focus on renewing commitments to regional fisheries management.
He pointed to the Mediterranean as an example of progress, stating that improvements in fish stocks have been driven by regional cooperation, strengthened scientific advice, and more effective management of fishing effort. He also highlighted a shift within the Spanish fleet towards more selective fishing gear with reduced environmental impact.
At the same time, he acknowledged continuing challenges in the region, including pressure on resources, climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss, and called for a stronger role for the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean.
