In a written answer on 15 July 2026, European Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans Costas Kadis told MEPs that the EU's Eel Regulation (EC) No 1100/2007 remains fit for purpose, but acknowledged that implementation has been insufficient and that European eel stocks show no signs of recovery. The answer, responding to a question from Stefano Cavedagna and Carlo Ciccioli of the European Conservatives and Reformists Group, reaffirmed the Commission's position that the current regulatory framework does not need revision, but that stronger action is needed from Member States.
temporary fishing closures set under the Fishing Opportunities Regulation, obligations under the Water Framework Directive to restore river continuity, and a strict EU-wide ban on trade in European eel under CITES and the EU Wildlife Trade Regulation. He noted that the Commission's own evaluation of the Eel Regulation concluded it is fit for purpose, but that implementation of Member States' eel management plans is variable and targets have mostly not been met, as confirmed by the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES).
The Commissioner stressed that further ambition is needed to address environmental mortalities, while continuing fisheries measures. He highlighted the Marine Action Plan, under which the Commission has called on Member States to revise their eel management plans in light of new scientific advice, and the Nature Restoration Regulation, which requires Member States to remove barriers to river connectivity, aiming to restore 25,000 km of rivers to free-flowing status by 2030.
No timeline was given for any new legislative proposal, and the answer did not announce any immediate revision of the Eel Regulation. The Commission instead indicated it will continue working with Member States and stakeholders at EU, regional and international level to help rebuild the eel stock.
The answer leaves the regulatory framework unchanged, which means businesses and communities historically linked to eel fishing, such as those in the Comacchio Lagoons, will continue to face existing restrictions. Conservation groups may welcome the reaffirmed commitment to trade bans and habitat restoration, but will likely push for more ambitious measures given the lack of recovery. The Commission's stance places the onus on Member States to improve implementation, potentially creating uneven progress across the EU.