The European Commission has adopted harmonized rules for weighing fishery products, replacing the 44 plans that have been implemented independently by E.U. member states over the years.
“Accurate weighing is crucial for effective fisheries control,” the commission said in its 10 August announcement. “It produces the reliable catch data needed to monitor quota uptake, assess the impact of fishing activities, and check compliance with the rules of the common fisheries policy (CFP). It also protects E.U. fishers from unfair competition.”
According to the commission, the new harmonized rules were created through “extensive consultation with member states and stakeholders” and will streamline and simplify procedures.
The new rules establish common procedures for weighing operations, minimum requirements for weighing systems and records, and benchmarks for inspections of weighing procedures.
The new rules will go into effect in January 2027.
