The Community has exclusive competence in regional fisheries organisations and is represented in all negotiations by the European Commission. Following the accession of Finland and Sweden in 1995, the Community became a major stakeholder in the Baltic Sea, with increased responsibility for the conservation of fish stocks in this area. The main management measures in place are the setting of total allowable catches, technical measures and cooperation on control and enforcement. Finland's and Sweden's shares are allocated to the Community which is responsible for their management. The International Baltic Sea Fisheries Commission's conservation rules become Community law by regulations adopted by the Council of Ministers.
Fishing pressure makes Mediterranean-wide conservation measures necessary.
Based on the recognition of the interdependence of ecosystems, it involves coordinating plans aimed at sustainable development across the sectors involved. The narrowness of the Mediterranean continental shelf has influenced the nature of fishing in the region. Most fisheries take place in the coastal band and involve a high number of small vessels. Highly migratory species, such as tuna, are also to be found offshore. The main fisheries are for hake, sea bream, sole, red mullet, sardines and anchovies as well as bluefin tuna, albacore and swordfish.