GFCM adopts 11 binding recommendations and 2 resolutions, tightening aquaculture management in the Mediterranean and Black Sea

The General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean (GFCM) adopted new guidelines on safeguarding farmed fish welfare and on managing abandoned, lost or otherwise discarded aquaculture gear at a recent meeting, with the aim of limiting environmental impacts and advancing the sustainable development of aquaculture in the Mediterranean and Black Sea.

According to a report by Vietnam Fisheries Magazine on 11 November 2026, the meeting was attended by GFCM members under the framework of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). Building on a review of the latest scientific advice on fisheries and aquaculture management in the region, the meeting adopted 11 binding recommendations and 2 resolutions.

According to The State of Mediterranean and Black Sea Fisheries 2025 report, marine and brackish water aquaculture now accounts for more than 45% of total aquatic production in the region. On this basis, GFCM identified improving farming conditions and limiting environmental impacts as key priorities.

One item on the agenda was the resolution on guidelines for safeguarding the welfare of farmed marine fish. The guidelines are based on research and professional activities carried out by the University of Crete within the framework of the Mediterranean Marine Fish Aquaculture Demonstration Centre (MMF-ADC), and provide a basis for countries to promote responsible farming practices and progressively improve the survival and care conditions of fish during the farming process.

At the same time, GFCM adopted guidelines on the management of abandoned, lost or otherwise discarded aquaculture gear. The document, developed by the GFCM Technical Advisory Group on Innovation and Technology, focuses on preventing gear loss, improving reporting and recovery, and encouraging the reuse and recycling of materials.

Control of gear that is no longer in use or has been lost is expected to help reduce waste, lower pollution risks and protect marine ecosystems, and is also a solution to help farming activities reduce their negative environmental impacts.

GFCM Chair Eyüp Mümtaz Tiraşin said the future of the Mediterranean and Black Sea depends on cooperation among countries, especially against the backdrop of rapidly rising seawater temperatures and growing consumer demand for aquatic products. He believes the new decisions show that regional cooperation can deliver tangible results in fisheries management and sustainable aquaculture development.

In 2027, GFCM will mark its 75th anniversary and hold its 50th annual session in Türkiye. Member states will also draw up a joint ministerial declaration setting out the direction and priorities for fisheries and sustainable aquaculture development over the next 10 years. The event coincides with the 10th anniversary of the signing of the MedFish4Ever Declaration.