EU fisheries ministers on 22 June 2026 debated a Cyprus presidency compromise text for the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF) regulation for 2028-2034, exposing deep divisions over fleet modernisation and the 'do no significant harm' (DNSH) principle. The presidency reported progress on strengthening the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) focus, clarifying WTO subsidy rules, and a proposed doubling of the CFP ring-fenced budget to €4 billion, but several member states pushed back on outstanding issues.
Spain led calls for a €6 billion budget and insisted DNSH must not block fleet renewal, while France demanded a clear framework for new vessel construction, warning current texts are insufficient. Italy and Portugal welcomed progress but sought further improvements on funding and consistency with the National and Regional Partnership Fund. Croatia and Greece praised the inclusion of new vessel construction support, but Sweden opposed it, warning of distortion and sustainability risks. Germany insisted fleet renewal criteria must be in the regulation itself, not left to guidelines. Belgium and Lithuania voiced concerns over budget levels and mandatory tasks like data collection. Poland stressed the need for adequate support given crises in the Baltic Sea. Finland and Latvia called for clarity on DNSH and separation of Ocean Pact funding.
Commissioner Costas Kadis supported fleet investment under conditions avoiding overfishing and respecting WTO commitments, but stressed that DNSH guidance should not be prejudged. The presidency aims for a partial general approach by end of June, with national planning starting in July. The outcome will directly affect EU fishing fleets, aquaculture operators, national administrations, and environmental groups, with trade-offs between modernisation and sustainability at the core of the debate.