EU SEAFOOD SUPPLY SYNOPSIS 2024 (Former FINFISH study) PUBLISHED
Brussels 14 October 2024
EU SEAFOOD SUPPLY SYNOPSIS 2024 Highlights Seafood’s Vital Role in the EU’s Protein Transition and Public Health
The EU SEAFOOD SUPPLY SYNOPSIS by AIPCE-CEP, provides key insights into the European fish and seafood processing industry, emphasizing the critical role of seafood in the EU’s dietary landscape and its potential to support the Union’s protein transition. As Europe seeks to diversify protein sources and improve public health outcomes, the findings highlight seafood’s unique benefits and its reliance on both domestic and imported supplies.
Key Findings:
- High Dependency on Imports
In 2023, the EU’s total seafood supply reached 12,473 thousand tonnes, with imports accounting for 68.7% of the total supply. This underlines the importance of a robust global supply chain to meet consumer demand for diverse fish species.
- Public Health Benefits
Regular seafood consumption is linked to numerous health benefits, including a reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases and improved cognitive function. These benefits are particularly relevant in the context of the EU’s protein transition, which emphasizes the replacement of less sustainable protein sources with healthier, plant-based, and seafood options.
- Supporting Economic Growth
The reliance on imports fosters job creation and economic growth within the EU’s fish processing sector. By securing a consistent supply of diverse seafood, the industry can innovate and adapt to evolving consumer preferences.
Call to Action
The findings of the EU SEAFOOD SUPPLY SYNOPSIS call on the EU Commission to recognize seafood’s essential role in the protein transition and public health strategy. To support the industry’s growth, we urge policymakers to:
- Enhance Trade Agreements: Facilitate seamless trade flows with third countries to ensure a consistent seafood supply and minimize barriers that could hinder imports.
- Boost EU production, fisheries and aquaculture: Increase support for sustainable practices and technological innovation in EU fisheries and aquaculture to enhance local production and foster more resilient domestic supply chains.
- Promote Public Awareness: Raise awareness about the health benefits of seafood consumption as part of a balanced diet, encouraging consumers to choose fish as a primary protein source.
- Support Seafood Consumption: Integrate seafood more deeply into European diets. This is not only a matter of health but also of economic and environmental sustainability. By leveraging new trade agreements and tariff quotas (ATQs) and boosting EU production, the EU can continue to benefit from a wide range of seafood, which is crucial for promoting balanced nutrition and supporting local economies.
As the EU navigates its protein transition, the seafood industry is prepared to provide nutritious and sustainable options for consumers. The EU SEAFOOD SUPPLY SYNOPSIS underlines the importance of continued investment in both domestic production and international trade to achieve these goals.
For more information, please contact Katarina Sipic Secretary General AIPCE-CEP at ksipic@kellencompany.com