On 28 January 2026 the Ministry for Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Rights (MAFA) launched a Public Consultation on the National Fisheries Strategy for Malta 2026–2036.
From an initial review from our end, the document acknowledges various challenging facing the fisheries sector, and by extrapolation which is rarely referenced in the document indirectly, the diving sector too.
The “Vision” for this strategy is stated as follows:
To support and maintain a sustainable, resilient and diverse fisheries sector, that protects fish stocks, conserves marine ecosystems, while safeguarding the livelihoods and well-being of fishing communities in Malta.
Page 8 of the National Fisheries Strategy 2026-2036
The “Mission” is stated as:
To ensure the long-term sustainability of Malta’s fisheries sector which prioritises ecological conservation with the socioeconomic needs of fishing communities to create a resilient, diverse, and forward-looking sector.
1. Livelihoods and Well-Being: Supporting fishers through market access, technology, and policy, complemented by improved infrastructure and enhanced skills development.
2. Fish Stocks and Fisheries Management: Maintaining sustainable fish stocks through regulatory oversight.
3. Heritage and Culture: Preserving fishing traditions and practices.
4. Maltese Economy: Strengthening the sector’s contribution to the economy.
5. Nature and Environment: Balancing fishing activities with marine conservation efforts.
Page 9 of the National Fisheries Strategy 2026-2036
Whilst the document includes many references to past schemes to support fishermen financially and multiple photos of the sitting Parliamentary Secretary with responsibility for Fisheries (we counted three), there is little in “bones on the meat” on the deliverables when it mentions the updating/creation of management plans for net-facilitated fishing which is considered by many to be a key issue which is affecting fishing stocks close to the coast.
You may view the full text of the “National Fisheries Strategy for Malta 2026-2036” at this link here or in the file below.
The consultation period is open until the 13 March 2026. Comments may be submitted via the form at https://www.gov.mt/en/publicconsultation/Pages/2026/NL-0002-2026.aspx
