On Friday (today), details were announced regarding the Aquaculture Fund which aims to strengthen the sustainable development of the aquaculture industry in Malta and support marine research.

The Fund was established following legal amendments in 2023, whereby annual contributions made by aquaculture operators to the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture for permits and contributions are now being redirected into this dedicated fund. This means that each year, approximately €90,000 will be reinvested into the sector. The Fund is open to project proposals from students, educational institutions, environmental NGOs, as well as public entities.

Parliamentary Secretary for Fisheries, Aquaculture and Animal Rights Alicia Bugeja Said said that, “this is not just a funding scheme, but a fund of opportunity. We believe this sector can become a central pillar of our blue economy, fostering more sustainability, innovation, and positive environmental impact.”

“With collaboration between the public sector, NGOs, and students, we can ensure that these funds are used effectively to support marine sustainability. I encourage all eligible applicants to apply so we can build a blue future for our country,” the parliamentary secretary concluded.

In his address, the Acting Director General for Fisheries and Aquaculture Bjorn Azzopardi said: “This Fund will create a cycle in which contributions made by aquaculture operators to the Department will be reinvested as a means of financing projects by students and NGOs aimed at protecting the marine environment.

“This aligns perfectly with the Malta Vision 2050, where the blue economy is one of the main pillars,” he concluded

Applications for projects related to this Fund close on 25th July.

More information can be obtained from the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture, or by clicking here.