Details
- Identification
- PDF ISBN 978-92-9405-210-0 doi:10.2926/5282226 HZ-01-25-051-EN-N
- Publication date
- 16 June 2025
- Author
- European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency
Description
As part of the 2013 reform of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP), the landing obligation was introduced to tackle unsustainable discarding practices in European fisheries. Phased in from 2015 and fully in force since 1 January 2019, the landing obligation requires certain catches to be retained, recorded, and counted against quotas—marking a significant shift in fisheries management across EU waters.
Five years into full implementation, the Directorate-General for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (DG MARE) commissioned an in-depth study to support its ongoing policy evaluation. The study was funded under the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF).
The findings are clear: while some progress has been made, the landing obligation has not fully delivered on its promise. Despite isolated successes in reducing discards, widespread behavioural change across the fleet has been limited. Challenges such as uneven enforcement, regional disparities, and economic constraints have slowed progress.
The study also identifies key areas where enhanced action could make a difference.
This comprehensive assessment underscores the complexity of embedding the landing obligation in practice. It also offers a valuable opportunity to refine the policy—through improved enforcement, targeted funding, regional nuance, and stronger engagement with the fishing sector.
Event to present the study
CINEA and DG MARE are organising an event to present the study and collect feedback from stakeholders. The event will take place online on 8 July from 14:00 to 16:30 (Brussels time).
