Overseas
“Protecting our seas and preserving biodiversity are fundamental values and goals in the fishing industry. However, raising alarm today by promoting studies that are five years old cannot be considered a reliable point of reference or reflection,” states Natale Amoroso, National President of AIC Pesca, with conviction. Amoroso was born into the sector and has long supported training initiatives for young people aspiring to become entrepreneurs in one of the world’s oldest professions.
“Over the past few years, trawl fishing regulations in the Mediterranean have become significantly stricter,” Amoroso points out. “From the mandatory mesh size of nets, to the minimum seabed depth, the required distance from the coastline, and the seasonal fishing bans — which have increased from 30 to even 55 days in some cases — the rules have evolved considerably. On top of these constraints, the sector is also facing a sharp decline in both vessels and fishers.”
Referring to a recent publication in Scientific Reports citing data from the European Commission about damaged seabeds and endangered fish species, Amoroso clarifies: “We’re not denying the importance of such research, but it must be based on updated and contextualized data to be truly useful and relevant.”
He adds a final warning: “While our Mediterranean fishers are rightly held to strict EU rules, the same waters are shared with non-EU vessels that are not subject to these same standards. It’s time to manage this sector with true competence and to engage those who actually understand the work being done out at sea.”
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