€700K Financial Assistance Scheme For Fishermen Affected By Rising Fuel Prices

The Government has launched a €700,000 financial assistance scheme to support full-time fishermen facing higher fuel costs caused by the ongoing crisis in the Middle East.

Administered by the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture, the scheme is intended to ease part of the additional fuel expenses being incurred by professional fishermen while helping to safeguard the long-term viability of Malta's fishing industry and maintain the continuity of food supplies. Rising fuel prices have affected fishing sectors across several European countries, increasing operating costs for those who rely on fuel-intensive activities at sea.

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Anton Refalo said the measure reflects the Government's commitment to supporting fishermen during a period of international uncertainty.

"Our fishermen should not have to shoulder the burden of international circumstances over which they have no control. Through this €700,000 allocation, we are providing practical assistance to ease part of the increase in fuel costs and help the sector continue operating," he said.

The latest scheme follows previous Government support measures introduced in response to extraordinary increases in operating costs. During 2022 and 2023, national funding was used to help offset higher fuel prices linked to the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Last year, another support scheme was introduced to help fishermen cope with rising bait prices.

Financial assistance under the new scheme will be based on actual fuel consumption and will cover 70% of eligible additional fuel costs. The amount will be calculated using the difference between the average monthly fuel price and the February 2026 baseline price of €0.5961 per litre. Payments will be issued after fuel receipts have been verified.

The scheme is open to eligible operators registered as full-time professional fishermen (MFA), who qualify as small and medium-sized enterprises and purchase duty-free fuel for fishing operations.

The first application period opened on 28 September and will remain open until 9 October 2026. It covers claims for fuel purchased between 1 March and 31 August 2026. Applications can be submitted through the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture's Extension Services offices in Marsaxlokk, St Paul's Bay and Mġarr, Gozo.

The financial assistance scheme has also received approval from the European Commission under the Middle East Crisis Temporary State Aid Framework.

#MaltaDaily