The European Commission has adopted a key investment package for the Slovenian maritime, fisheries and aquaculture sectors worth EUR 32.6 million (USD 36 million), including close to EUR 25 million (USD 27.6 million) of EU funds, for the period 2014-2020.
The Operational Program (OP) under the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (EMFF) is fully in line with the EMFF priorities and the EU's Common Fisheries Policy (CFP). It contains funding of almost EUR 17.5 million (USD 19.3 million) for the sustainable development of fisheries and aquaculture sectors, and for marketing and processing related measures.
"I am delighted that we adopted the Slovenian maritime and fisheries program. The EMFF, in synergy with efforts from other EU funding, can play a vital role in helping Slovenian fisheries, aquaculture and fishing communities thrive well into the future. With its emphasis on economic, environmental and social sustainability, [this] adoption puts the sector on the path to greater resource efficiency, innovation and more opportunities for jobs and growth,” said Karmenu Vella, EU Commissioner for Environment, Maritime Affairs and Fisheries.
The package seeks to promote smart and green fisheries and aquaculture while strengthening companies' economic viability and the potential for maritime economic growth. In particular, it aspires to foster a sustainable, innovative and profitable aquaculture sector. It also aims to secure the sustainable development of fishing communities, such as through improved added value measures and diversification.
Supported initiatives will include projects that improve the sustainable livelihood of fishing and aquaculture communities, limit the impact of fishing on the marine environment, ensure the balance between fishing capacity and available fishing opportunities, and promote the competitiveness of aquaculture and processing sectors.
