EU algae initiative

Key points :

The EESC:

• welcomes the Commission Communication on creating a strong and sustainable EU algae sector;
• points out that in the context of creating an algae sector, it is necessary to increase confidence in products and pay more attention to ensuring they are safe;
• understands that there is a reasonable balance between macroalgae and microalgae in the Communication, but recommends examining how the freshwater part of the algae sector could bring benefits to certain Member States (those without a maritime coastline);
• recommends taking a more balanced and integrated approach to related sectors, making a clear distinction between the competences of the EU and of the Member States and, if need be, protecting the internal market from cheap imports.