Malta has launched the implementation of a €4.5 million digital platform designed to modernise the management of its fisheries sector, with funding from the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF).
The new Fisheries Integrated Information System (FIIS), announced by Minister for European Funds and the Implementation of the Electoral Programme Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi and Parliamentary Secretary for Fisheries, Aquaculture and Animal Rights Alicia Bugeja Said, will consolidate nine existing information processing systems within the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture into a single platform.
Officials said the system will enable the department to collect and process real-time data from multiple sources, including vessel monitoring systems, satellite feeds, catch records and automated onboard measurement tools. It is also designed to. Communicate directly with the European Commission through the FLUX platform, ensuring compliance with national and EU reporting obligations.
Zrinzo Azzopardi described the project as a strategic use of European funds aimed at strengthening a key productive sector. He said the investment would support fishermen while improving efficiency and introducing modern technologies. He added that the initiative was intended to meet current operational needs while contributing to a more sustainable and resilient future for maritime communities.
Bugeja Said said the system would mark a significant step in the digitalisation of fisheries administration, allowing authorities to operate with real-time information and full traceability while reducing paperwork and administrative burdens on both fishermen and the department.
Under the new system, fishermen will be able to access their data through mobile devices, while catch reporting will be automated, reducing manual entry, paper use and the likelihood of errors.