The total quota for Norwegian spring-spawning herring (NVG herring) will increase by 33% next year, following an agreement reached between the coastal states at talks in London.
The total allowable catch for 2026 has been set at 533,914 tonnes, up from the 2025 figure. It is in line with the latest scientific advice from the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES).
Agreement reached in London
The two-day negotiations on 20–21 October brought together representatives from Norway, the Faroe Islands, Iceland, Russia, and the UK.
Norwegian Fisheries and Oceans Minister Marianne Sivertsen Næss welcomed the outcome, describing it as “positive that the coastal states agree on a total quota for next year.”
She added that Norway had succeeded, through bilateral agreements, in reducing actual fishing pressure on the stock and would continue working toward a whole, long-term sharing arrangement among all coastal and fishing nations involved.
Quota aligned with science
The decision follows ICES recommendations, which indicate that the NVG herring population is healthy enough to support a higher catch in 2026. Officials say the increased quota balances sustainable management with the economic importance of the stock to North Atlantic fisheries.
Next steps: review and coordination
The coastal states also agreed to update the zonal distribution report for the stock and to evaluate the existing harvest control rule as part of efforts to strengthen long-term management.
Minister Sivertsen Næss underlined the herring’s importance to Norway’s fishing communities and the need for continued cooperation among the coastal nations.