From 2021 to 2024, shrimp fishing along Greenland’s west coast has been a significant contributor to the country’s economy.
This industry, focused on northern shrimp (Pandalus borealis), is not only the largest but also the most profitable fishery in Greenland.
As the current management plan is set to expire in 2025, a new review is underway to inform its future direction.
How the Fishery Works
Since 2025, Greenland has used a system of Individual Transferable Quotas (ITQs). Each fishing company owns a share of the total allowable catch (TAC), which is renewed every 10 years.
The TAC is set yearly by the government based on scientific advice. A portion of the TAC is shared with the EU and Canada, as per agreements, since the shrimp stock spans international borders.
Before 2025, the fishery was split between coastal and offshore zones. Now, it is managed as a single unit.
Scientific Advice and Quotas
The Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Organisation (NAFO) provides scientific guidance, analysing stock size and the impact of predators, such as cod. Between 2021 and 2024, recommended catches dropped from 115,000 to 95,000 tons due to declining shrimp stocks. Greenland’s TAC followed this trend, falling to 83,125 tons in 2025.
Greenland kept a balance between stable catches and sustainability, limiting TAC changes to no more than 12.5% yearly unless significant stock changes occurred.
Fishing Results and Rules
Greenland’s vessels usually use most of their quotas. In 2024, both offshore and coastal fleets nearly fully used their allocations. The new 2025 fishing law introduced a rule requiring fishers to use at least 75% of their quota, or they risk losing part of it.
The buying and selling of quotas and quota shares were active, especially between 2021 and 2024, with more quotas sold from offshore to coastal operators. New rules in 2025 limit annual quota trading to 10% per company, and no single owner can hold more than 20% of West Greenland’s shrimp quota.
Shrimp Fleet and Landings
There are currently 29 licensed vessels, mainly smaller and older boats, fishing in coastal waters. New rules stipulate that coastal vessels must be under 40 meters in length and have a tonnage of 1,000 gross tons.
Shrimp are landed in towns like Sisimiut, Aasiaat, Ilulissat, and Nuuk. Sisimiut sees the highest volume. As of 2025, all vessels must land at least 25% of their catch, with this requirement increasing to 30% by 2030.
Biodiversity and Melville Bay
Biodiversity is protected, with very low bycatch (under 1%). Special care is taken to avoid catching other shrimp species, especially Pandalus montagui.
Melville Bay, located in the far north, has special restrictions due to its vulnerable ecosystems, including coral beds. Some areas are open, others require permits, and some are completely closed to protect the seabed.
Economic Impact
Shrimp account for about 45% of Greenland’s export value. Most shrimp are processed onboard ships and sold directly, earning higher prices than those landed onshore. The value added through land-based processing also nearly doubles the shrimp’s initial value.
MSC Certification
Since 2013, Greenland’s shrimp fishery has been certified as sustainable by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC). This certification boosts export prices and market access.
To retain it, Greenland must adhere to strict rules, particularly those related to environmental impact and scientific management.
This review supports the continuation of sustainable practices while ensuring the industry remains a key economic driver.