Eastern Macedonia–Thrace pushes blue economy strategy with major aquaculture investments

The Eastern Macedonia and Thrace region is accelerating its transition toward a “blue economy,” positioning aquaculture as a cornerstone of sustainable development and regional growth.

Speaking at a regional conference titled “Aquaculture: A Driver of Local and Regional Development” in the Sarışaban area of Kavala, Regional Governor Christodoulos Topsidis highlighted the sector’s strategic importance.

Topsidis emphasized that the region holds significant comparative advantages, including extensive coastlines, lagoon ecosystems, rich biodiversity, and a skilled workforce. “Aquaculture is not just an economic activity—it is a fundamental pillar of sustainable development,” he stated.

Under the EU-backed 2021–2027 Fisheries and Aquaculture Program, the region has submitted three major projects exceeding €9.5 million, targeting lagoon systems in Rhodope, Xanthi, and Kavala.

More than €4 million has been allocated specifically for Kavala, funding infrastructure upgrades in lagoon areas, environmental protection measures, and technical interventions. Planned works include dredging operations, installation of fish passage systems, reinforcement of sea-lagoon connections, and deployment of advanced water-quality monitoring equipment.

The projects also aim to introduce early warning systems for fishermen, alongside digital and satellite-supported monitoring to ensure real-time oversight of environmental conditions.

In addition, a separate €455,000 initiative will support the promotion and marketing of regional fishery and aquaculture products, enhancing competitiveness in domestic and international markets.

At the same event, Deputy Regional Governor Theodoros Markopoulos underlined the sector’s long-term growth potential, noting that coordinated investment and environmental stewardship will be critical to success.

Topsidis concluded by stressing collective responsibility: “Developing an environmentally responsible, sustainable, and competitive aquaculture model is a shared duty.”