Progress report for
Setting up of a European Maritime Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund
Achievement at a glance
On 7 July 2021, the European Parliament and the EU Member States adopted Regulation (EU) 2021/1139 establishing the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF).On 19 January 2022, the European Commission adopted an Implementing Regulation (EU) 2022/79 laying down rules for the application of Regulation mentioned above.
The European Commission reviewed and approved all national EMFAF programs. As of 30 June 2024, EU Member States committed EUR 0.9 billion (or around 15% of the total EMFAF support available) of EMFAF funding and reported EUR 0.3 billion (or around 4% of the total EMFAF support available) EMFAF eligible expenditure.
Next Steps
Benedicte CaremierBeneficiaries
The European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF) benefits a wide range of stakeholders, including:
· Fisheries and Aquaculture Sector: fishers, fishing communities, aquaculture farmers, and vessel owners can receive support for sustainable practices and improving productivity.
· Coastal and Maritime Communities: coastal regions, small islands, and remote areas dependent on maritime industries can access funding for infrastructure development and economic diversification.
· Environmental and Conservation Organisations: marine conservation groups, research institutions, and NGOs working on sustainability and marine protection can benefit from funding for research, conservation, and biodiversity projects.
· Public Authorities and Local Governments: national and regional authorities can use EMFAF for policy implementation, infrastructure, and sustainable maritime transport projects.
· Businesses and SMEs: small and medium-sized enterprises in fisheries, aquaculture, and maritime sectors can receive support for innovation, equipment, and sustainable practices.
· Training and Research Institutions: vocational training providers and research organisations working on skills development, technology, and sustainability initiatives in maritime sectors can access funding.