MID argues that the fund’s proposal is positive for recognising the importance of sustainability, competitiveness, and food security. However, they warn that production in Europe, specifically their sector, contributes to EU’s food sovereignty and minimises dependence on third-country suppliers.
This represents a strategic strength that “should be recognised and supported, especially in a geopolitical context characterised by increasing supply uncertainty”.
The organisation highlights that their products, used primarily as feed in aquaculture, result in indirect human consumption through aquaculture production, and should therefore be included in the support-eligible group under Article 35, stk. 11, on an equal footing with direct food producers.
Supporting Climate Goals and Agricultural Reform
MID supports linking the Fund proposal to the Green Industry Deal, as reducing energy costs is key to accelerating the green transition. The sector is working on new, climate-efficient solutions to reduce CO2 emissions, but notes that implementation requires significant and costly investments.
Additionally, the organisation urges that the fund’s future design should support a necessary reform of agricultural subsidies, which should better promote sustainable and less pesticide-intensive cultivation methods.
MID assesses that this development would be of decisive importance for the fishing sector and the marine environment, by reducing the discharge of nutrients and pesticides into coastal waters, thereby strengthening the fund’s overall effect through environmental synergy.