Brexit prompts EFTTA to move headquarters to Belgian capital

EFTTA, which earlier this week announced its decision to postpone this year’s EFTTEX trade show until 2022, is set to move its headquarters to the Belgian capital of Brussels.

The decision to move out of the organisation’s home since its formation in 1981 in London, follows the UK’s Brexit and is expected to be completed in September.

EFTTA CEO, Olivier Portrat, told Angling International: “It is a natural step for EFTTA to have a seat in Brussels which is the home of the European Parliament, where we conduct our very important lobbying.”

“Ensuring the future of our sport is the main task of EFTTA and carrying out that work, which has never been more important, in the heart of the EU power base makes absolute sense.”

For the second year running, EFTTA has been forced to cancel its trade show, which was due to take place in Prague, because of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Portrat added that it is hoped the venue will be able to stage to 2022 event, but that EFTTA was monitoring the situation. “Whether it will be in the Czech Republic or another European country, EFTTA is determined to stage a show next year.”