Unlocking the Potential of Organic Aquaculture in the EU: A Review of Policy Support and Supporting and Constraining Factors

Abstract

Organic aquaculture remains a niche market within the European Union (EU), despite Europe being one of the regions where it receives most attention. This study aimed to identify the factors limiting its growth by (i) reviewing EU and national policies on organic aquaculture within the Farm-to-Fork strategy context and (ii) examining the supporting/constraining factors influencing organic aquaculture in the EU. Results showed that while EU policy support has increased over time, national implementation remains constrained. Organic aquaculture is incorporated in aquaculture multi-annual strategic plans, but its development is less delineated than conventional sustainable aquaculture, and the same applies to national operational programmes. Globally, there is a need for enhancement in the configuration and execution of organic support, involving all sector actors. Secondly, a literature review identified key impact factors that were categorised as supporting or constraining and analysed quantitatively. Consumer demand for organic aquaculture products appears to be increasing, which could stimulate sector growth. However, significant barriers persist, including price differences between organic and conventional products for consumers, lack of consumer awareness about organic practices/product added-value, and the perceived feasibility of organic aquaculture by farmers. This latter is linked to other constraining factors, such as the high costs and limited availability of organic inputs and complex bureaucracy. To overcome these barriers, the sector requires targeted marketing strategies, financial incentives (both addressed to farmers and consumers), streamlined regulations, and increased research funding to drive innovation. The study also offers insights into the species-specific constraints faced by key farmed species.