Brussels has accepted the Hungarian Fisheries Operational Program Plus

By: STA Date: 2022. 12. 22. 09:00

The adoption of the Hungarian Fish Farming Operative Program Plus represents the basis for the support and development of Hungarian fish farming in the coming years, as it provides a total of 53.9 million euros, i.e. 20 billion forints, for the sector until 2027 – announced Minister of Agriculture István Nagy.

(Photo: Pixabay)

The minister drew attention to the fact that 30% of the funds are provided by the Hungarian government, and 37.7 million euros are coming from Brussels. He added that during the development of the program, the European Commission considered sustainability and climate protection to be particularly important, while Hungary also considered it essential to improve the situation of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises. The government therefore sought to balance the environmental and competitiveness aspects, and in the end a favorable agreement was reached on the fisheries support for Hungary.

The goal is sustainability and innovation

István Nagy also explained that the main goal of MAHOP Plusz is to increase the competitiveness and sustainability of fish production and processing through innovation and digitalization, while reducing environmental impact. In accordance with the expectations of the European Commission, the support of climate- and environment-friendly fish management methods, the increase of the share of methods based on the principle of circular management within the production systems, the maintenance and development of the biodiversity of water and wetland habitats and the role of fish ponds in maintaining the natural value is also a priority. The minister emphasized that, thanks to the adoption of MAHOP Plusz, support for Hungarian fish farmers is ensured in the period between 2023-2027, and the development of the Hungarian fish farming sector can continue.

A.M