Speaking to Lusa, Miguel Cardoso, the president of the Fisheries Producers Organisation of the Algarve (Olhãopesca), said that the sector is in talks with the Government, and is waiting for "support and mitigation measures" that allow it to face the increase in fuel prices, but admitted that, if prices continue to rise, vessels with the greatest need for fuel may eventually stop.

Asked about the way professionals in the sector are dealing with the rise in fuel prices, the official, whose association represents 163 vessels, said that they are already experiencing “some difficulties”, since prices “have been increasing and this will reduce income for ship owners and fishermen”.

“A year ago, a litre of diesel cost about 50 cents and currently costs close to one euro” and although “the entire sector is being harmed”, trawlers are feeling the weight of the price rises more keenly.

“For now, everything is working, but with great apprehension and concern, taking into account the possibility that prices will continue to increase and we are waiting for measures that can help us to deal with this situation”.

He stressed that “the price of fish sold at auction does not follow these increases”, because “the system of sale at auction results from the law of demand and supply” and “does not reflect” the increases in costs.