Recovery of fish stocks in the Mediterranean: positive results of the management plan – The European Commission has published a report highlighting significant progress in the implementation of the multiannual management plan for demersal fish stocks in the western Mediterranean. The document marks a historic turning point, showing how many fish stocks have started to recover since 2019, with promising prospects for the future of sustainable fisheries in the region.
According to the paper, several fish stocks in the western Mediterranean have shown signs of recovery since 2019. Scientific projections indicate that half of the stocks could reach sustainable fishing levels by 2025, which is encouraging news for fishermen and conservationists.
Scientific projections and current data
Data from the Scientific, Technical and Economic Committee for Fisheries (STECF) reveal that 20 per cent of stocks are currently being fished sustainably, reaching maximum sustainable yield (MSY), and 15 per cent are close to this target. This progress is attributable to the implementation of the management plan, which has included reduced fishing effort measures and the adoption of more selective gears.
Management Plan Successes
– Mud mullet in the Gulf of Lion: an example of success is the mud mullet, which has seen a complete recovery thanks to the management plan.
– Economic sustainability: the Western Mediterranean fleet showed high profitability in 2023 due to high first sale prices and low fuel costs.
Management Plan targets from 2019
1. Achieve sustainable fishing levels for 20 stocks by January 2025.
2. Address the structural overcapacity of the Mediterranean fleet.
Management tools and transparency
The plan introduced a fishing effort regime for bottom trawlers aimed at a 40 per cent reduction in fishing effort within five years. This transition period allowed the fleet to adapt gradually, limiting the social and economic impact on fishermen.
Financial Support
Member States benefited from financial support through the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund, which facilitated the implementation of the new management measures.
The future of fisheries in the Western Mediterranean
The year 2025 will mark the end of the transition period, with the full implementation of the plan’s provisions to ensure sustainable fisheries. This date represents a key milestone for the future of Western Mediterranean fish stocks and the long-term sustainability of the fishing industry.
The Commission’s report highlights significant progress in the management of Western Mediterranean fish stocks, with prospects for sustainable fisheries by 2025. This success not only benefits the marine ecosystem, but also ensures economic and social sustainability for the region’s fishermen.
Recovery of fish stocks in the Mediterranean: positive results of the management plan
