MEP Peter Agius Urges Action as Lampuki Catches drop by half

"I will not accept that Maltese consumers and our fishermen lose out on our rights to exploit the sea around us. The Commission must do its job and see that common rules are applied equally. I will keep being the voice of the Maltese on these issues of national interest. The European Commission must act decisively to enforce fair practices across the Mediterranean”

MEP Peter Agius (EPP, MT) has raised concerns over the sharp decline in Lampuki (Coryphaena hippurus) catches by Maltese and Gozitan fishermen, with provisional data for 2024 showing a drastic reduction by 160 tonnes – half of the previous year's catch.  This decline threatens the livelihoods of local fishermen and the traditional Maltese diet, as Lampuki has long been a key part of the local economy. The issue centres on a Regulation which should enforce a European closed season for Lampuki from January to August 14 each year.

However, reports indicate that fishermen in other Mediterranean regions, such as Tunisia and Sicily, are deploying Fish Aggregating Devices (FADs) before the prescribed date, disrupting Lampuki migration patterns and placing Maltese fishermen at a disadvantage for adhering to the regulation. In response, MEP Peter Agius has submitted a priority question to the European Commission, seeking clarification and stronger measures to ensure fair fishing practices across the Mediterranean.  Specifically, MEP Peter Agius has asked the Commission about its actions to monitor compliance with the regulation, the need for clarification on certain fishing rules, and the implementation of measures to ensure a level playing field between EU and third-country fishers. Agius emphasized the importance of Lampuki for local diets and the economy, stressing the need for balanced policies that protect both conservation efforts and the interests of Maltese and Gozitan fishermen.  He remains committed to ensuring the European Commission acts swiftly to support sustainable fishing and safeguard the livelihoods of local communities.
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