The European Commission has adopted a EUR 29 million (USD 31.5 million) investment package for the Maltese maritime, fisheries and aquaculture sectors.
The package, which includes EUR 23 million (USD 25 million), is designed to support Maltese seafood production, but also to promote sustainable and efficient aquaculture and fisheries. The programs will improve infrastructure and equip fishermen with new skills.
"This investment will be a shot in the arm for Malta's coastal communities and economy as a whole,” said Karmenu Vella, European commissioner for the environment, maritime affairs and fisheries, himself a Malta native. “It is no secret that our maritime, fisheries and aquaculture sectors are the lifeblood of many of our communities and that's why I am delighted that long term economic and environmental sustainability is the focus of this program."
The program, according to a statement from the commission, follows the rules of the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund and the Common Fisheries Policy. The program will also promote a shift in consumption toward lesser known species.
