The European Commission has approved an investment package for the maritime, fisheries and aquaculture sectors of Croatia totaling EUR 348.5 million (USD 374.8 million), including more than EUR 252 million (USD 270.7 million) of EU funds.
The investments are for the period 2014-2020.
“This investment package for Croatian fisheries is an important EU contribution that will benefit Croatian fishermen, fish farmers and fishing communities alike. Funds will be used for projects that generate opportunities for jobs and growth, while ensuring environmental and social sustainability in coastal areas,” said Karmenu Vella, EU Commissioner for Environment, Maritime Affairs and Fisheries.
The adopted operational program (OP) is in line with the priorities of the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (EMFF) and the EU's reformed Common Fisheries Policy (CFP). It aims to enhance environmentally sustainable, resource efficient, innovative, competitive and knowledge-based fisheries and aquaculture in Croatia as well as promoting blue growth and maritime skills and knowledge.
In particular, the funding will contribute to limiting the impact of fishing activities on the marine environment, enhancing marine biodiversity and balancing fishing capacity of the Croatian fleet with available fishing opportunities.
The funds will flow to projects that improve the livelihood of fishing communities through the setting up of Community-Led Local Development groups (CLLD) and the creation of Fisheries Local Action Groups (FLAGs). The program also aims at improving the market organization of fisheries products. For example, by establishing the first producers' organizations in Croatia.
