Nicosia: Cyprus can serve as a model for aquaculture in the European Union, according to Cypriot Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans, Costas Kadis. In an interview with the Cyprus News Agency, Kadis emphasized the importance of developing aquaculture across the EU and highlighted the benefits of the Commission’s support for small-scale fisheries in Cyprus.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Commissioner Kadis discussed the ongoing evaluation of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) and efforts to ensure European fisheries remain competitive. He revealed that proposals for potential revisions to the CFP would be presented by the end of 2025. Kadis noted that a significant portion of the fish consumed in the EU is imported, with 70% coming from outside the union.
Kadis outlined the Commission’s commitment to bolstering small-scale fisheries, which would directly benefit Cyprus, and praised the country’s steady growth in aquaculture as an exemplary model. He also addressed progress in delimiting Natura sites durin
g his tenure as a minister and underscored the significance of maritime spatial planning to harmonize human activities without harming the environment.
Focusing on his main priorities, Kadis highlighted two key areas: evaluating and potentially improving the CFP, and addressing perceived unfair competition faced by European fisheries from third countries. He acknowledged the challenges Cypriot fisheries face, such as restrictions on fishing in 60% of coastal areas, and emphasized the need for policies that ensure fair competition.
Kadis pointed out that only 30% of fish consumption needs in Europe are met by domestic fisheries and aquaculture, with Cyprus’ fisheries primarily consisting of small-scale operations. He stressed the potential for aquaculture in Europe, noting that it contributes only 10% to the region’s fish consumption needs. Kadis advocated for increased investment in the sector, with Cyprus serving as a successful example.
The Commissioner also addressed the management of Natura 2000 networ
k sites in Cyprus, expressing confidence in the country’s efforts to comply with EU regulations. He mentioned securing funding for the management of these areas and reiterated the Commission’s readiness to support Cyprus in marine environmental protection.
Kadis elaborated on his responsibilities concerning EU ocean policy, highlighting the role of the oceans in food production, goods movement, and renewable energy infrastructure. He emphasized the importance of ensuring these activities coexist harmoniously without damaging marine ecosystems.
The upcoming European Oceans Pact aims to unify various marine policies, and Kadis expressed optimism that it will provide a comprehensive framework for managing marine environments. He mentioned ongoing consultations with stakeholders and anticipated the pact’s presentation at the United Nations Ocean Conference in Nice.
In conclusion, Kadis discussed maritime spatial planning, which aims to minimize conflicts between different maritime activities. He noted that mos
t EU member states, including Cyprus, have aligned with the EU’s Marine Spatial Planning Directive. The Commissioner underscored the importance of balancing environmental sustainability with economic activities like energy and drilling, suggesting that the Oceans Pact will facilitate a harmonious coexistence of marine activities.