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Greece Launches €5.33/kg Buyback to Fight Invasive Toxic Pufferfish

Thursday, 25 June 2026/Source: Flashnews/1 min read

Greek authorities have set a buyback price of 5.33 euros per kilogram for pufferfish (lagocephalus), an invasive and toxic species that has spread throughout Greek and Cretan waters. The measure, announced following a meeting at the Ministry of Rural Development and Food, is designed to support professional fishermen by financially rewarding them for catching and removing the fish from local seas. Pufferfish are highly toxic and must never be eaten. Tourists swimming or snorkeling in Cretan waters may encounter them, but should not handle or consume them under any circumstances. The species poses no direct threat to swimmers but is harmful to the local fishing industry and marine ecosystem. This government-backed program aims to reduce pufferfish populations while providing an additional income stream for Cretan fishermen affected by the species' rapid spread.

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