Only one in four EU fishermen is under 40 years old.

Omissions

• The exact figure in the Commission report is 26% (2023 data), not exactly 25%; the difference of 1 percentage point is within standard rounding.
• The report also notes that in most countries around 50% of fishers are aged between 40 and 64, which provides additional context on the ageing profile.

Sources

• PrimaryEuropean Commission — Oceans and Fisheries: Commission publishes first annual social report on fisheries, aquaculture and fish processingThe report notes a decline in generational renewal, with the proportion of fishers under 40 decreasing from 31% to 26% between 2017 and 2023. The age profile of fishers is also a concern, with 50% of workers aged between 40 and 64 in most countries.
• SecondaryThe Fishing Daily — EU Fisheries Workforce Declines as Ageing Crews Raise ConcernsAt the same time, the share of fishermen under 40 has dropped from 31% to 26%, highlighting a growing lack of new entrants into the industry.
• SecondaryWe Are Aquaculture — Fewer jobs and an ageing workforce: new EU report looks at the social dimensions of Europe's seafood industryIn most countries, 50% of fishers are aged between 40 and 64. The share of fishers under 40 fell from 31% to 26% between 2017 and 2023, pointing to a decline in generational renewal in the sector.