Today, the European Commission has activated the crisis mechanism of the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF), allowing Member States to provide financial compensation to fishers, aquaculture producers, processors and retailers whose livelihoods have been disrupted by the consequences of the conflict in the Middle East. The measure, which applies retroactively from 28 February 2026, reflects the severe impact that the region's hostilities are having on the EU's fishery and aquaculture sector.

The financial support activated under this decision is drawn from each EU country's existing EMFAF allocation under their 2021–2027 national programme, with the EU co-financing a share of the eligible expenditure. Member States may decide to offer this support and are responsible for administering and providing the compensation to operators directly. The emergency support measures introduced today were pre-allocated under the 2021–2027 EMFAF programme, leaving around €760 million of the initial €1.3 billion still immediately available.

The crisis also highlights the structural vulnerability of a sector dependent on fossil fuels. Accelerating the energy transition remains essential for the long-term competitiveness, resilience and profitability of the EU fishery and aquaculture sector.