Chapter 3.13 Fisheries regulates the field of fisheries but given the fact that the Republic of North Macedonia does not have a sea border, much of this EU acquis is not applicable. The acquis on fisheries consists of regulations that will prepare the administration and the operators for participation in the common fisheries policy, which covers market policy, resource and fleet management, inspection and control, structural actions, and state aid control. Harmonising with the EU’s Common Fisheries Policy includes applying various technical measures and establishing an appropriate system for inspection, surveillance and control, a system for dealing with illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, as well as co-financing mechanisms.

The aim is to ensure greater control and sustainability of fisheries and water resources, easier placement on the European market, encourage fishermen and fish processors to use the funds of the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund, as well as protect endangered fish species.