The Commission has launched a public consultation on the implementation of the Technical Measures Regulation. The results of the consultation will feed into the Commission’s third report on the implementation of the regulation, due in 2027.
The Technical Measures Regulation sets rules on how, when and where fishing can take place. It includes specifications on mesh sizes, closed areas and fishing gear techniques, so that fishing is carried out in the most responsible manner.
The consultation aims to assess to what extent technical measures, at both regional and EU level, have contributed to more sustainable fishing.
Share your views by 27 November 2026
The fishing industry, non-governmental organisations, academic, scientific, social and economic partners and interested citizens are invited to share their views until 27 November 2026 via EUSurvey.
Next steps
The Technical Measures Regulation requires the Commission to report to the European Parliament and to the Council on its implementation every third year (Article 31). The third report is due in 2027. It will build on the results of this consultation and on the previous reports published in 2021 and 2024.
It will also draw on scientific advice from the Scientific, Technical and Economic Committee for Fisheries (STECF), advice on innovative gear from the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES), and feedback from Member States, the relevant Advisory Councils and other interested parties.
Background
Technical measures are a broad set of rules that govern how, where and when fishers may fish. The Technical Measures Regulation entered into force in 2019, establishing measures across all European sea basins, as well as providing regional specificities. Its goal is to contribute to the objectives of the common fisheries policy (CFP) and achieve good environmental status.
Technical measures are essential for sustainable fisheries management and for implementing an “ecosystem-based” approach in fisheries. The evaluation of the CFP Regulation in April 2026 concluded that the ecosystem-based approach to fisheries management contributed to minimising the negative impacts of fishing on marine biodiversity and ecosystems. This has been achieved primarily through technical measures, as well as designating marine protected areas and international cooperation.
More information
Public consultation on the implementation of the Technical Measures Regulation
Technical Measures Regulation (Regulation (EU) 2019/1241)
First report on the implementation of the regulation
