The Faroese cod quota on the Flemish Cap will rise by more than 600 tonnes in 2026, after a decision taken at the NAFO annual meeting in Halifax, Canada.
21.7 per cent increase agreed
The Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Organisation (NAFO) agreed to raise the total allowable catch of cod on the Flemish Cap by 21.7 per cent. That sets next year’s limit at 15,360 tonnes. The Faroese share is 22.35 per cent, equal to 3,433 tonnes – up from 2,819 tonnes this year.
Smaller quotas for black halibut and redfish remain unchanged at 187 tonnes and 69 tonnes, respectively.
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Canada opens Grand Bank cod fishery
Canada reopened cod fishing on the Grand Bank last year, after a ban that had lasted since 1993. The country holds 95 per cent of that quota. For the Faroese fleet, the share rises to 40 tonnes in 2026, compared with 20 tonnes this year.
Shrimp stocks, however, remain under pressure. NAFO members agreed to keep the bans in place on the Grand Bank (since 2015) and the Flemish Cap (since 2022). New stock assessments are planned, as surveys show changes in shrimp distribution in Canadian waters.
Faroese delegation involved
The Faroese delegation in Halifax included representatives from the Ministry of Fisheries and Infrastructure, Vørn, the Faroese Shipowners’ Association and the Longliner Association.
NAFO is the international body that manages fishing in the Northwest Atlantic. Each year, members set the maximum catch levels based on scientific advice.