Operators in the EU’s blue economy – particularly fishing fleets and aquaculture SMEs – report persistent barriers to accessing suitable finance for vessel renewal, productivity upgrades and sustainable growth. EMFAF-backed debt instruments may help close these gaps alongside existing public support.

To explore this potential, the European Investment Bank launched a feasibility study assessing the scope for guarantees and other debt products tailored to sector needs.

The study is following a staged approach. First, it is mapping financial institutions active in the blue economy, together with the financial products they offer, specifically those related to financing fishing fleet investments. Second, it is analysing the financing needs and obstacles encountered when lending for investment in the fishing fleet. This is being done by examining both the constraints faced by commercial banks when providing loans and the barriers encountered by SMEs in accessing finance, with the aim of identifying the potential role of EMFAF-backed financial instruments at both Member State and EU level in supporting fishing fleet investments. Finally, the results will be consolidated to define conclusions and recommendations on public support in the form of financial instruments for fishing fleet investment.

The assignment will deliver conclusions and recommendations on viable EMFAF-supported instruments and their implementation options.

The study is being conducted by EY in consortium with t33.