Information and Coordination Centre for Fisheries Transformation

The Information and Coordination Centre for Fisheries Transformation supports fisheries in the North Sea and Baltic Sea in their transition to a sustainable, more environmentally friendly and economically viable sector. As a central point of contact for fishermen, politicians, scientists, fisheries and environmental associations, we pool knowledge and bring stakeholders together. The IKTF works on behalf of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Regional Identity (BMLEH).

Fishing in the German North Sea and Baltic Sea faces major challenges: fish stocks are suffering from poor environmental conditions, fishing grounds are being lost to new offshore wind farms, the fleet is outdated, there is an acute shortage of young talent, and the number of fishing businesses has been declining for years. With the Information and Coordination Centre for Fisheries Transformation (IKTF), we are supporting the resulting structural change. The aim is to establish a future-proof and resilient fishing industry that operates in harmony with the natural marine habitats in the long term and can adapt flexibly to future challenges. We see ourselves as a central point of contact for all those involved in the transformation process – especially for fishermen and fisherwomen in both German sea areas. 

We inform: We pool existing knowledge, provide scientific findings and present projects and innovations for sustainable fisheries. We also communicate funding and adaptation opportunities, for example for fleet reduction.  

We network: We bring people and projects together, for example at events, conferences and workshops, and promote the transfer of knowledge from science to practice and within the sector so that we can learn from each other. In focus groups, we explore thematic issues of structural change with stakeholders from various fields, exchange experiences and develop further steps. 

We promote innovation: We coordinate and support innovation and development in order to advance practical and sustainable solutions for fisheries. One focus is on further developing the fishing profession and tapping into alternative sources of income to make the profession more attractive to young people.  

We advise: As a point of contact for coastal fishermen and fisherwomen, we facilitate contacts with government agencies on issues relating to operational support, assist in the search for suitable support instruments and their further development, and organise events and training opportunities. At the same time, we advise the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Regional Identity (BMLEH) on the measures and support approaches necessary for a successful transformation. 

The IKTF works on behalf of the BMLEH and is based at the Thünen Institute. At the beginning of 2026, we will move into our offices in Hamburg's HafenCity and commence our work.