Brussels:The European Commission has presented its Vision 2040 for fisheries and aquaculture, outlining a comprehensive strategy for the sector's development over the next 15 years. This initiative aims to enhance both the environmental and economic sustainability of the industry across the European Union.

According to Cyprus News Agency, the strategy is designed to support the livelihoods of communities reliant on fisheries and aquaculture, which employ over 200,000 individuals across the EU. It addresses the entire value chain, focusing on business predictability, investment growth, and the protection of aquatic resources and ecosystems.

The strategy emphasizes the importance of healthy ecosystems for a robust fisheries sector. It acknowledges the need for technological innovation and improved monitoring of unwanted catches, aiming for more effective measures to prevent them.

Key priorities include enhancing energy efficiency, adopting clean fuels, and modernizing fleets. The Vision also seeks to bolster the EU's supply of aquatic food by supporting innovations like pescatourism and legislative efforts to create a more coherent regulatory framework for aquaculture.

To boost demand for EU-produced aquatic food, the strategy will promote digital traceability across supply chains by 2029, aligning with the EU's nutritional and food security goals. Additionally, the Commission plans targeted initiatives to improve access to finance and research, support small-scale fishers, and attract younger generations to the sector.

The EU strategy also encompasses a global perspective, aiming to promote sustainable fisheries worldwide through international partnerships and agreements. Member States are invited to implement the Vision with measures tailored to local and regional needs.