Evaluation and forecasting of the Finnish operational program of European maritime and fishery fund

The effectiveness of the European maritime and fisheries fund's (2014-2020) Finnish operational program is assessed by a team of experts in fisheries and stock assessment at the Natural Resources Institute Finland. The evaluation is carried out on an ongoing basis in close co-operation with business entrepreneurs, administrations and stakeholders. The aim is to provide information that will allow fisheries development and policy measures to be effectively targeted during the funding period. The evaluation also serves the information needs related to the monitoring of the EU Commission's action program.

The evaluation monitors the development of the fishing industries and the operating environment and anticipates their changes. Developments are assessed through national and international statistics and reviews, as well as interviews with entrepreneurs and key personnel in the industry. The results are summarized annually in the fisheries and aquaculture status reports and in the fish market review. Annual survey of fisheries entrepreneurs and stakeholders, as well as the administration itself, is conducted to assess the administration's performance. The impact of fisheries policy and other policies affecting the fishing industry is also monitored.

The work includes also separate studies serving current information needs. In 2018 the effects of the individual transferable quota system were assessed and in 2019 the activities of Fisheries Local Action Groups were assessed. Based on the results of the evaluation and forecasting, there will be a dialogue with fisheries operators on the development of the sector and its prospects.