Research project GSSI standard for the Belgian fishery

General introduction

Visserij Verduurzaamt (Fisheries Sustainability) Strategy II implements the analysis of the previous Visserij Verduurzaamt Strategy I project. It aligns the Fisheries Sustainability (VV) with the international GSSI standard (Global Sustainable Seafood Initiative) as a lever for sustainable market access. The project strengthens governance, operational management, and legal anchoring and develops a stable, independent, and transparent financing model. This makes Fisheries Sustainability an even more credible, flexible, and future-proof certification system for the entire sector.

Research approach

The project combines scientific evidence, participatory process management, and market orientation. There are three areas of focus: ILVO is updating and digitizing the VALDUVIS methodology (a sustainability tool for the Belgian fishing industry) so that data can be used efficiently and transparently. In parallel, the researchers, under the guidance of an external expert, are developing a legal and organizational structure that will subsequently undergo an independent audit. Finally, Visserij Verduurzaamt is being aligned with the GSSI standard and prepared for an international assessment.
In addition, the project works towards alignment with the GSSI standard, including preparation for an international assessment.
In this way, the project combines scientific underpinning, participatory process management and market orientation to make VV future-proof.

Relevance/Valorization

Through alignment with the GSSI standard, the Visserij Verduurzaamt (Sustainable Fisheries) Strategy II project strengthens the international recognition of Belgian fish products. It increases the visibility of local retailers and restaurants and also their market access to international retail. Shipowners and chain partners find structural added value through greater traceability and transparency. In terms of policy, VV contributes to the Sustainable Fisheries Covenant and European sustainability requirements. This creates a sustainable, independent, and widely supported system that supports risk diversification and resilience in the sector.

Financing

OVIS vzw