ETF and Europêche sent a joint letter to Commissioner Michael McGrath expressing concern over the European Commission’s decision to postpone the delegated act on the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS). The decision would delay reporting obligations for non-EU companies for at least two years, and potentially remove the legal basis for such obligations altogether.
As recognised EU Social Partners for the fisheries sector, the ETF and Europêche warn that this move risks creating serious social and economic distortions within the EU seafood market.
A decision with major social consequences
European fishing vessels operate under some of the highest labour, safety and environmental standards in the world. These standards are reflected in responsible practices, investments, employment, and strong compliance mechanisms.
However, non-EU fleets, particularly from Asia, often operate under severely lower social and environmental conditions, with limited transparency and weak oversight. These fleets supply around 70% of the seafood consumed in the EU.
By delaying equivalent reporting requirements for these operators, the Commission risks giving an unfair advantage to fleets that do not meet EU-level standards, placing the burden of compliance solely on European companies.
Impact on workers and coastal communities
In the joint letter, the Social Partners highlight the concrete social risks of such regulatory asymmetry:
- It undermines companies that invest in decent working conditions and respect for fundamental labour rights.
- It increases competitive pressure on European crews and potentially contributes to job losses in the sector.
- It affects coastal regions whose economies depend heavily on fishing-related employment.
- It sends a harmful political message that respecting high social standards is a competitive disadvantage, rather than an EU priority to be protected.
A due diligence system that applies only to EU operators is not credible and threatens the long-term sustainability of Europe’s fisheries workforce.
A call for a level playing field
The ETF and Europêche urge the Commission to ensure that due diligence obligations apply simultaneously and equally to all companies placing seafood on the EU market, regardless of origin. Only an aligned framework can guarantee fair competition, social justice, and responsible supply chains.
