Spanish industry federations CEPESCA and FNCP are warning that the increase in fuel costs puts the viability of companies, employment, and food supply at risk.
The Spanish Confederation of Fisheries (CEPESCA) and the National Federation of Fishermen’s Associations (FNCP) have asked Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez for further measures to address the serious crisis facing the fishing sector as a result of current geopolitical conflicts.
In a letter sent to the government, both organisations warn that the situation ‘has only worsened in recent weeks’ and warn that ‘numerous vessels could be forced to cease operations imminently due to a lack of profitability’ – and that in some instances this is already the case.
The primary factor behind this crisis is the spiralling rise in fuel prices, which have junped from between €0.50 and €0.60 per litre in January, more than doubling to over €1.30 in many Spanish ports, and even €2.20 in other countries.
‘This increase is drastically raising operating costs, pushing numerous companies below the break-even point,’ the federations warn.
The organisations stress that ‘what is at stake is not only the economic viability of fishing companies, but also thousands of direct and indirect jobs, food security, and the maintenance of the social and economic fabric of coastal communities.’
CEPESCA and FNCP see the support already provided under Royal Decree-Law 7/2026 of 20th March as insufficient. This decree expressly acknowledges the impact of rising fuel prices on the economic viability of the fishing sector, as well as the increased cost of packaging, refrigerated storage, and maritime transport as aggravating factors.
The organisations are proposing a package of additional measures to the Government for immediate implementation.
They highlight an increase in fuel subsidies from 20 to 50 cents per litre and their monthly disbursement to guarantee liquidity for businesses. They also request that the Administration have all the necessary mechanisms in place to immediately activate the European aid provided for in the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF) as soon as this is authorised by the European Commission.
The sector is demanding the exemption, and not just the deferral, of Social Security contributions for companies and workers until at least the end of 2026, as a key measure to sustain employment in an exceptional crisis context.
CEPESCA and FNCP are also requesting a meeting with the government to discuss the situation and finalise the implementation of these measures, and stress that the fishing sector needs immediate answers to be able to continue operation.
