Support for the permanent cessation of fishing activities in the fisheries sector

The funding program supports the nationwide permanent cessation of fishing activities in the fisheries sector and provides incentives to owners of Union fishing vessels as well as fishers to scrap their ships or permanently convert them to other activities. The measure aims to eliminate structural imbalances between fishing capacities and fishing opportunities, thereby improving ecological sustainability. A total of up to EUR 20 million is available across three funding phases until the end of 2027. In the first phase until 31.03.2026, EUR 12 million are reserved, mostly for the environmentally relevant fleet segments of crab fishing and flatfish fishing. Eligible costs include compensation for loss of value, scrapping costs, and license withdrawal at 100% of the aid-eligible expenses. Prerequisites include ownership for at least three years, assignment to a supported fleet segment, and a minimum of 90 fishing days per calendar year in the two preceding years. An auditing authority monitors compliance with ecological requirements and collateral offenses such as IUU fishing.

The funding enables fishing enterprises to exit economically while considering social interests and simultaneously supports marine conservation. As an alternative to complete scrapping, conversion into a museum ship may be approved in individual cases. Applications can be submitted to the Federal Office for Agriculture and Food (BLE) by 31.03.2026, 31.12.2026, or 31.12.2027. Required documents include the funding application, logbook extracts, and proof of ownership. The Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture hosts the guideline, which is implemented by the BLE. Potential applicants thus benefit from tailored funding to adjust the fleet structure to ecological requirements in the long term and to ensure a sustainable transition.