The European Commission has launched a call for evidence to inform the preparation of the European Ocean Act, planned for adoption in 2026.

The call will run until 9 February 2026, with the Commission seeking contributions from stakeholders, experts and citizens. The European Ocean Act is one of the main deliverables of the European Ocean Pact and aims to improve the coherence and effective implementation of maritime governance in the EU. It is intended to serve as a single point of reference for economic, climate, environmental and social objectives related to the protection and sustainable use of ocean resources and services.

The Act will build on the revision of the Maritime Spatial Planning Directive, structure the governance and coordination of the European Ocean Observation System, and simplify reporting obligations under EU ocean policies.

An open public consultation is expected in spring 2026, and the legislative proposal for the European Ocean Act is foreseen for adoption by the end of 2026.