The European Commission has approved a €25 million State aid scheme for Spanish fishing companies affected by rising fuel prices due to the Middle East crisis. This scheme, under the Middle East Crisis Temporary State Aid Framework (METSAF), aims to mitigate fuel cost impacts until 31 December 2026. Companies can receive €0.20 per litre of diesel purchased, capping at €200,000 per vessel. The Commission found this aid necessary and appropriate, ensuring it supports economic activity without harming trading conditions.
Italy has updated its sustainable aquaculture certification rules to enhance commercial visibility and recognition of Italian farmed fish products. The changes, welcomed by the Associazione Piscicoltori Italiani, include the removal of the exclusive use of the SQNZ logo, allowing broader branding opportunities. New technical requirements have been introduced, focusing on environmental sustainability, traceability, and stronger controls over non-GMO feed and farm documentation.
The European Commission has launched OceanEye to enhance the EU's role in ocean observation, aiming for the EU to contribute 35% to the global ocean observing system by 2035. This initiative addresses critical areas such as ocean protection, climate forecasting, and sustainable economic activities. A total investment of €92 million from the Horizon Europe programme will fund these initiatives, supported by collaboration with Member States and private entities to secure long-term observation funding.
The European Commission has approved a €15 million aid scheme from France to support agricultural and aquaculture companies affected by rising fuel prices due to the Middle East crisis. Under the Middle East Crisis Temporary State Aid Framework, this scheme aims to mitigate the impact of a 74% increase in non-road diesel prices from February to April 2026. The funding will provide direct grants of €0.0386 per litre of fuel purchased from 1 to 30 April 2026, covering up to 70% of increased costs.
The European Union secured a significant agreement at the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission meeting in Malé, Maldives, establishing new measures for managing Indian Ocean swordfish sustainably. It provides a framework for sustainable fishing for an initial two-year period. The EU's catch limit for its fleets is set at 6,356 tonnes for 2027 and 2028, reflecting its commitment to responsible fishing.