This week, the European Commission (EC) unveiled a series of proposals aimed at limiting the fishing efforts of trawlers and longliners in the western Mediterranean. Among these initiatives are catch limits for deep-sea shrimp, a key target of Mediterranean fisheries, and a compensation mechanism for trawlers affected by the changes. These measures are part of broader efforts to ensure sustainable fishing practices across the region, with a particular emphasis on preserving delicate shrimp stocks.

Shrimp Quotas and Long-term Management

The EC’s proposal is part of a multiannual management plan for demersal stocks in the Western Mediterranean, which includes provisions for deep-sea shrimp. Adopted in 2019, this plan has gradually introduced stricter controls over fishing activities, and it is set to come fully into force by January 2025. Central to the EC’s strategy is the establishment of catch limits for shrimp, alongside other key species, as Brussels works to curb overfishing and ensure the long-term health of marine ecosystems.

The plan will be adjusted following the annual session of the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean (GFCM) in November, when new scientific advice is expected. The EC has already indicated that the measures agreed by the GFCM in 2023—such as management plans for shrimp and sea bream—will inform the final version of the proposal.

The Mediterranean’s Shrimp Future

Shrimp fisheries in the Mediterranean, particularly in Spanish, French, and Italian waters, have been under increasing scrutiny due to concerns over stock depletion.

As part of the EC’s proposal, shrimp catch limits will be gradually reduced, allowing fisheries to adapt to the new regulations while preserving the economic viability of the industry. Brussels is also introducing a compensation mechanism for trawlers to mitigate the impact of these new constraints.

Next Steps for Shrimp Management

As the EU prepares for further consultations, notably the GFCM’s November session, the future of Mediterranean shrimp hangs in the balance. The results of these discussions will shape the management of shrimp stocks for years to come, with sustainability at the forefront of Brussels’ agenda.

EU fisheries ministers are scheduled to meet in December to finalize fishing opportunities for 2025, marking the culmination of a multi-year effort to protect vital shrimp and other marine resources across Europe’s southern seas.