Polish MEP Piotr Müller (ECR) has raised concerns that the EU CATCH traceability system could disrupt supplies for fish processors in Poland and across the EU, particularly for fisheries where catches are aggregated before processing. In a written parliamentary question submitted on 16 June 2026, Müller asked the European Commission to assess the impact of the new requirements on processors using legal raw fish from such fisheries, and to consider alternative compliance methods or an extension of the transitional period beyond 10 July 2026.
The EU CATCH system, designed to combat illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing, requires full traceability of fishery products. Müller acknowledged the system's objectives but warned that practical implementation could harm legitimate businesses. He cited the example of wild salmon from Alaska, where catches from multiple small vessels and fishing days are pooled before reaching processing plants, making it difficult to comply with the new rules. The transition period ends in the middle of a short fishing season, risking supply disruptions.
an impact assessment on Polish and EU fish processors, alternative compliance mechanisms for aggregated catches, and an extension of the transitional period. The Commission is expected to reply within approximately six weeks, and its answer will signal whether it is open to adjusting the rules to accommodate industry concerns. The issue pits the EU's goal of combating IUU fishing against the operational realities of fish processors, who face potential administrative burdens and supply chain interruptions. Stakeholders most affected include EU fish processors, particularly in Poland, as well as importers, small-scale fishing vessels, and EU consumers who may face higher prices or reduced availability of certain products.