Commissioner Costas Kadis addressed the future of fishing in the Azores via a video message at a dedicated conference on June 20, 2025. He emphasised the Azores' unique relationship with the ocean, highlighting the fishing sector's integral role in local food security, cultural heritage, and economy, dominated by around 600 small-scale vessels targeting species such as tuna, swordfish, and blackspot seabream.
Proposal for CFP Evaluation
Kadis announced the ongoing evaluation of the EU's Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) Regulation to rigorously assess its current effectiveness and identify areas for potential improvement. This evaluation prioritises the sustainable development pillars: economic viability, social welfare, and environmental protection. The Commissioner stressed reliance on transparent, evidence-based assessments coupled with extensive stakeholder consultations, including positive regional feedback from the Azores' authorities.
Policy Orientation Towards Sustainable and Profitable Fisheries
The speech outlined intentions to reinforce scientific input in quota setting and stock assessments, aiming to balance ecological health with economic prosperity. Kadis envisioned collaborative actions fostering a resilient, competitive, and sustainable fisheries and aquaculture sector by 2040, with fishers playing a critical role as ocean custodians.
Political Significance and Stakeholder Impact
The proposals lean towards cautious enhancement rather than sweeping reform, maintaining EU regulatory oversight while aiming to support local fisheries' sustainability. The policy focus suggests strengthening EU-level scientific advisory mechanisms and possibly introducing targeted legislative amendments post-evaluation.
Impacted stakeholders include EU regulatory bodies tasked with policy refinement and enforcement; regional Azorean authorities engaged in local fisheries management; small-scale fishers who will face changes in quota regimes and sustainability measures; and local communities reliant on fisheries for economic and cultural sustenance. While the evaluation promises improved ecological and economic balance, fishers may encounter increased compliance demands, and authorities must manage transparent stakeholder engagement effectively.
Kadis’s message signals continuity with a participatory approach, reflecting a moderate yet attentive stance towards integrating local realities within the broader EU fisheries framework.