Cypriot fishermen are calling on the government to implement a ten-year national plan to support the struggling fishing industry, warning that fish stocks are rapidly declining and the sector is on the verge of collapse. This appeal was made during a meeting with European fisheries commissioner Costas Kadis, where multiple fishing associations jointly demanded proper application of the EU’s common fisheries policy (CFP).

The associations outlined key priorities including granting small-scale fishermen priority access to coastal waters, enforcing stricter controls on illegal and unreported fishing, and improving funding access to ensure stable incomes. They emphasized the need for fishermen to have a real voice in policy decisions affecting their trade. Christodoulos Charalambous, president of the fishermen’s association, highlighted that a plan developed collaboratively with scientists includes clear actions, responsibilities, and a budget.

Environmental group Oceana stressed the urgency for effective CFP enforcement to deliver tangible results, citing the upcoming European Ocean Act as an opportunity to enhance marine management and protect fishermen. Challenges facing the sector include climate change, invasive species, rising operational costs, and difficulty attracting new workers, compounded by uneven CFP enforcement across EU states as noted in a recent EU review.