The fishing industry is facing significant challenges due to soaring diesel prices linked to the Iran conflict, with over half of the Dutch fleet remaining docked this week. The Netherlands, home to a large number of beam trawlers—accounting for about 7% of the EU’s total fleet—has been particularly hard hit. Industry group VisNed reported that 80% to 90% of these trawlers did not set sail, as rising fuel costs have made operations unsustainable.
Spokesperson Durk van Tuinen highlighted that weekly fuel expenses have surged from €12,000-€13,000 ($13,800-$15,000) before the war to approximately €30,000, which matches the potential revenue from fish catches this season. This financial strain is not limited to the Netherlands; Belgium and Britain also face similar issues, with fleets targeting cod and haddock nearing loss-making levels.
Despite modest support measures from major fishing nations like Spain, Italy, and France, the industry is pressing the EU for relaxed state aid rules, reminiscent of those implemented during the energy crisis following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Consumers can expect tighter fish supplies and higher prices, with auction prices for sole already rising sharply, potentially leading to smaller restaurant portions or the removal of fish dishes from menus altogether.
