In a written answer on 12 June 2026, Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans Costas Kadis outlined the EU's existing legal framework to address illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing by non-EU vessels in the Mediterranean, responding to a question from S&D MEP Sakis Arnaoutoglou. Kadis stressed that Member States are primarily responsible for fisheries control in their waters, but the Commission receives and assesses sightings reports of alleged non-compliant activities by third-country vessels, with support from the European Fisheries Control Agency (EFCA) where relevant.
The answer, which contains no new concrete proposals or numerical targets, reaffirms the EU's reliance on two key regulations: the Fisheries Control Regulation (EC) No 1224/2009 and the IUU Regulation (EC) No 1005/2008. Kadis noted that Member States have duties as coastal states for surveillance and reporting, and that the Commission may request the flag state to investigate when sufficient information is available. On potential trade restrictions, the Commissioner stated that the IUU Regulation already allows for identification of non-cooperating third countries and related trade measures, but any such step must be based on substantial evidence and a comprehensive assessment.
The response signals no immediate escalation of enforcement or new initiatives, instead emphasising the use of existing tools. This leaves the burden of proof and initial action on Member States and the Commission's assessment process. The answer may disappoint stakeholders seeking stronger EU-level action, such as Mediterranean fishers facing unfair competition and environmental groups concerned about ecosystem sustainability. The Commission's cautious approach prioritises legal rigour over rapid intervention, balancing the need for evidence-based action against the urgency of protecting EU fishers' livelihoods and marine biodiversity. No specific timeline for further measures was provided, and the answer does not indicate any upcoming legislative proposals or enhanced surveillance mechanisms.