Fisheries

The overall goal of the new Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) is sustainable exploitation that takes into account economic, environmental and social conditions.

Fisheries policy is one of the common policy areas in the EU, which means that all Community countries are subject to the same regulations. In December 2002, acting on a proposal from the European Commission, EU fisheries ministers adopted a revised Common Fisheries Policy. Member States may only introduce national regulations to a limited extent. The EU fisheries policy covers all aspects of fisheries management and regulates such issues as resource management, structure, fisheries monitoring and the market. The policy area also includes a number of international agreements with countries outside the Community.

Sweden is working actively for a stricter and more effective application of the Common Fisheries Policy to stop the negative trend regarding fish stocks and to achieve sustainable fisheries. Sweden considers that quotas must be in line with scientific recommendations.