[Digest] Navigating the new MFF approach for 2028-2034 – Mapping threats and opportunities for the fisheries and aquaculture sector

A study presented on 6 May 2026 to the Committee on Fisheries examined how the EC’s proposed Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) for 2028–2034 could reshape support for the fisheries and aquaculture sector. It assessed the implications of the new funding architecture, including through legislative proposals on:

• the National and Regional Partnership (NRP) Fund,
• the European Competitiveness Fund (ECF),
• the Performance Regulation, and
• the Conditions Regulation for the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP).

The authors concluded that the proposed MFF introduces major uncertainties for the sector, primarily due to:

• reduced and less clearly ring-fenced funding,
• increased competition with other policy areas, and
• ambiguous implementation

There are concerns about the continuity of support previously provided under the EMFAF, including for:

• fisheries control,
• data collection,
• processing and marketing,
• fleet modernisation, and
• small-scale coastal fisheries.

The authors made several key recommendations, including:

• stronger safeguards for fisheries and aquaculture within the new governance structures,
• clearer implementation rules,
• improved accessibility to funding,
• dedicated budget allocations, and
• a more detailed assessment of the consequences of the ‘Do No Significant Harm’ principle for the sector.

The presentation was followed by several questions from the Members and a stimulating debate with the researchers and the representative of DG MARE.