The strategic importance of the fishing industry for Greece

Deputy Minister of Agricultural Development and Food Mr. Simos Kedikoglou met with the members of the Board of Directors of the Panhellenic Association of State Ichthyologists to discuss the economic-social dimension and the strategic development of the fishing sector as a pillar of Greece’s primary sector.

Issues of the traceability of fishing products, the tightening of controls, the legislative determination of the professionalism of fishermen and the reinstatement of recreational fishing licensing were at the center of the discussions.

In addition, Mr Kedikoglou discussed with ichthyologists the acute problem of dealing with invasive species (harefish, lionfish, etc.) as well as  how to establish training programs for young fishermen, but also legislation of the compensation procedure for sector professionals (fishermen, aquaculture and all kinds of fisheries) due to natural disasters in the sector.

The deputy minister reiterated the special importance he attaches to fishing issues. Mr. Kedikoglou underscored the importance of protecting fish stocks and was informed about the establishment of a Scientific Council for Fisheries to collect and process data, with priority to determine the fish breeding zones/shoals. The issue of fishing tourism was also brought up as it could significantly boost the income of professional fishermen and become an important lure for visitors.