Fish farms controversy should not become politicised - Chamber of Commerce

The Malta Chamber of Commerce has said that the sensitive matter of fish farm regulation “should not become politicised” and that “technical, environmental and commercial considerations should lead the way to an equitable solution."

“It is never easy and straightforward to address an issue which can have negative facet on one side and a positive one on the other” said the Chamber, adding that such an issue requires  “good sense and sound actions.”

While endorsing the environment authority’s action to address the “irregularities which have been persisting in the tuna farming industry” the Chamber noted that the industry “is a significant niche activity which is essentially Maltese bred and depends on the good reputation and excellence of our country with clients such as Japan.”

The Chamber added that “it is worth mentioning that the industry contributes Euro 150 million to our exports and provides direct employment to more than 300 employees.”

It also added that although the economy is doing well, the importance of the fish farming industry should not be underestimated and that the country should instead strive to enable it to flourish even further.

“The Chamber solicits the environment authority and the operators to find an equitable solution that is practical, realistic and the least harmful to the industry in its approach but at the same time in line with the requirements of protecting our environment”