Spain's Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Luis Planas, convened a meeting on 4 September 2026 with representatives of the country's fishing and aquaculture sector to address the principal challenges of the coming months, centred on EU negotiations over total allowable catches (TAC) and quotas for 2027, as well as the forthcoming Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) for 2028–2034 and the reform of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP).
Participants included representatives from the Spanish Fishing Confederation (Cepesca), the National Federation of Fishermen's Guilds (FNCP), and the Spanish Aquaculture Business Association (Apromar).
On the near-term outlook, Planas indicated that stability is expected for the main Atlantic fisheries, given the favourable global status of the principal species. He noted, however, that mackerel negotiations would be closely monitored due to a lack of consensus among the countries involved in that fishery. Regarding the agreement with the United Kingdom, Spain will seek the best possible quota for northern hake.
On the Mediterranean, Planas acknowledged the considerable effort made by the Spanish fleet in adopting selectivity and sustainability measures, thanking the sector for its commitment and stating that these measures "are working." He expressed the expectation that scientific reports would confirm a recovery of resources, and made clear that Spain would "not accept new reductions in fishing days that could jeopardise the sector's profitability."
Turning to the MFF 2028–2034 and CFP reform, Planas said Spain is pressing for adequate funding for the sector and a greater balance between environmental sustainability and the economic and social viability of fishing activities.
The minister also referenced government support for fishing fuel costs in the context of the economic consequences stemming from the conflict in the Middle East.
The meeting further covered the upcoming revision of the Western Mediterranean Plan, modifications to the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund, and various national regulatory projects relating to fisheries control, resource management, and professional qualifications.
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