ETC2025 Delves Deeper Into Critical Issues Faced by World’s Largest Tuna Market

Opportunities and challenges follow each other rapidly in the tuna industry. Import tariffs the US is threatening Europe with, should that alarm us or can it bring a beneficial change? At the European Tuna Conference 2025 on May 5 in Barcelona, we will elaborate on the impact of developments in the industry. Under the theme “Navigating the Evolving Tuna Landscape,” sustainability, supply chains, and market dynamics will be addressed by key panelists interacting with the audience.

President Trump’s policy to make America great again has not only led to a trade war between the US, Mexico, Canada, and China, but could also be affecting Europe; especially with the EU preparing possible countermeasures. Where will this lead to? Should we focus more on regional production and take additional protective measures? Or will it provide more opportunities for European tuna sourcing from China? These and other topics will be approached in Session I.

The increasing demand from consumers to have sustainable and socially responsible tuna on their plates forces the industry to take steps. The current technological progress opens doors to advanced traceability of tuna that contribute to sustainable sourcing and transparency in the supply chain. But what is the scale of adoption?

Session II will focus on the possibilities and measures taken by the EU to ensure the entrance of only sustainable and socially responsible tuna into the bloc. However, will these Green Deal-inspired initiatives be fully implemented?

Have we reached the maximum tuna catches? Fisheries in the Pacific Ocean—WCPO and EPO—reported record-high skipjack catches in 2024. In contrast, EU purse seine fisheries in the Atlantic and Indian Oceans experienced poor catches for the second consecutive year, putting boat owners and processors in the danger-zone, forcing them to either put boats up for sale or face bankruptcy. What perspective the EU fleets and processing companies have in the future, will be addressed in Session III.

Do not miss the chance to learn panelists’ views on the opportunities and challenges the industry is facing and connect with other professionals. It will be one of those investments with assured pay-back for your organization.

Reserve your seat now at the European Tuna Conference.