You are using an outdated browser For a better experience using this site, please upgrade to a modern web browser. Subscribe Get Daily Email Subscribe --> Contact Us Sign in Home News & Features Compliance Costs Bunker Prices Bunker Intelligence EMEA News Latest Features World Americas EMEA Asia/Pacific Home News & Features EMEA EU Approves French Aid for Fishing Firms Hit by Higher Marine Fuel Prices EU Approves French Aid for Fishing Firms Hit by Higher Marine Fuel Prices by Ship & Bunker News Team Friday May 22, 2026 Tweet Follow @shipandbunker The EC says marine fuel prices have climbed by more than 75%. File Image / Pixabay The European Commission (EC)  has approved a €13 million French aid scheme to support fishing companies facing higher marine fuel costs linked to the Middle East crisis. The support will cover fuel purchased during April and May 2026, with companies eligible for grants of €0.20/litre in April and €0.35/litre in May , EC said in a statement on its website on Friday .  The EC said marine fuel prices rose by more than 75% between late February and April 2026 , sharply increasing operating costs for the fishing sector. “This has created substantial economic uncertainty and severely impacted sectors that are highly dependent on fuel such as the fishing sector, EC said. “The surge in fuel prices has significantly increased operating costs and threatens the economic viability of fishing companies.” The scheme is the first approved under the EU’s new Middle East Crisis Temporary State Aid Framework, introduced in April to help sectors exposed to higher energy costs. Ship & Bunker News Team To contact the editor responsible for this story email us at [email protected] Also in the News Seven OPEC+ Members Announce June Output Increase The UAE is absent from the latest OPEC+ output increase after announcing its exit from the producer group last week. Read in Full Bunker One Saw Iran War Demand 'Tsunami' Starting With 60%