The so-called 'dual logic' of blue-green growth, promoted by the European Union to balance environmental protection with economic growth, is holding back the development of the aquaculture sector. First and foremost, this approach fails to recognise the inherent conflicts between the environmental and economic values applied to the industry.
In addition, the current approach creates confusion and contradictions among regulators, citizens and investors, resulting in the stagnation of the sector for more than a decade.
Another factor hindering the growth of the sector is the small size of many aquaculture enterprises, which makes it difficult for them to compete with companies from third countries that are not subject to the strict EU regulatory framework. These foreign companies have been able to expand their operations and benefit from economies of scale, thereby reducing their costs.
Over-regulation and a lack of clear, coordinated focus have exacerbated the competitive disadvantage and are at the heart of the sector's stagnation.
Since its inception, aquaculture in the European Union has had to contend with a negative perception that still prevails in many regulatory, academic and public circles. In addition, the lack of adequate political representation further hampers the development of the sector.
In response to these challenges, the only viable way forward is to work on the development of clear policies and stronger support from the European Commission, Member States and regional authorities.
Another key area for improvement is to promote cooperation between countries to exchange knowledge, technologies and best practices, which could facilitate better access to global markets for European aquaculture products.
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