Research for PECH Committee - Policy options for strengthening the competitiveness of the EU fisheries and aquaculture sector

The EU fisheries and aquaculture products (FAPs) market is largely dependent on external producers. Some of the imports entering the EU market come from countries with lenient regulations. This study gives an overview on existing competitiveness measures. It shows main trends in the EU’s FAPs supply through extra-EU imports and identifies the main internal and external factors affecting the sector’s competitiveness. The research presents four case studies and an assessment of options for adaptations to the internal and external policy framework. Finally, it provides a series of recommendations for strengthening the competitiveness of the EU fisheries and aquaculture sector in the future.