Impact of rising fuel prices on the EU fisheries sector and the need for coordinated EU action

Question for written answer E-001495/2026
to the Commission
Rule 144
Sander Smit (ECR), Bert-Jan Ruissen (ECR), Ton Diepeveen (PfE)

The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has triggered a sharp rise in global fuel prices, placing severe pressure on the EU fisheries sector, where fuel costs are critical for viability. Many vessels are operating at a loss or remain in port.

Commissioner Costas Kadis has acknowledged the severity of the situation and indicated that emergency support measures may be mobilised, including the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF) and other instruments. At the same time, several Member States have taken immediate national action, including targeted fuel tax reductions and the provision of direct financial support.

The absence of comparable measures in some Member States, including under the minority government of the Netherlands, risks contributing to an uneven playing field within the internal market and underlines the need for more coordinated action at EU level.

• 1.Will the Commission encourage more coordinated action by Member States, including those that have not yet introduced emergency measures, on providing immediate support, such as fuel cost compensation, to ensure a level playing field?
• 2.When will the Commission ensure the rapid activation and flexible use of EMFAF and State aid rules to complement national efforts across the EU?
• 3.Beyond long-term decarbonisation, what immediate and technologically neutral measures does the Commission envisage to reduce fuel consumption and operational costs across the EU, including accelerating the approval of innovations such as pulse fishing and other fuel-saving technologies?

Submitted: 13.4.2026