Miss Damanaki said that the EU fully supported the development of EU aquaculture, saying that is was seen as a solution to food security issues and overfishing.
CFP Reforms
She highlighted that aquaculture had taken an important role in the reform of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP).
Regional areas will be asked to draw up multi annual strategic plans that will focus on the sustainability of aquaculture in those areas.
Producer organisations will be given powers in order for them to become more effective, and aid will be given to new and existing companies wishing to expand locally and globally.
Miss Damanaki said that the Marine Fisheries Fund will be announced at the end of November, this calls for innovative research ideas.
Challenges and opportunities
Sustainability - economic, environmental and social sustainability is the challenge.
However there are also opportunities, she said. Opportunities to make EU aquaculture more successful and more profitable.
"It is up to us to change and challenge these opportunities to improve not only EU aquaculture, but the overall EU economy.
AQUA EUROPE: The CFP & EU Aquaculture
EU - There is a brilliant future ahead for EU aquaculture producers, EU Commissionner for Maritime, Maria Damanaki said at the opening of Aquaculture Europe 2011. Charlotte Johnston, TheFishSite editor reports.
