Greenland’s Ministry of Fisheries, Hunting, Agriculture and Self-sufficiency has published its 2026 proposal for total allowable catches (TAC) on cod (Gadus morhua).
The plan follows the national cod management framework introduced in 2025, combining scientific advice with industry knowledge.
For West Greenland offshore, a TAC of 16,000 tonnes is proposed — a reduction of 500 tonnes from 2025. The ministry notes that the scientific advice recommends a total catch of 4,708 tonnes, but socio-economic considerations and reports from fishers influenced the decision. Last year, a significant quota increase was granted after strong catches and industry appeals.
East Greenland Quota Raised to Test Stock Limits
In East Greenland, the ministry proposes increasing the offshore quota from 35,000 to 40,000 tonnes, a 5,000-tonne rise. This includes 32,000 tonnes for the Dohrn Bank and 8,000 tonnes for Southeast Greenland.
Scientists from the Greenland Institute of Natural Resources had advised maintaining catches at 23,518 tonnes. Still, the government intends to “test the limits of the fishery” in areas where cod populations are shared with Iceland. Fishing companies will be required to collect biological samples for continued monitoring.
Coastal Fisheries and New Access for Small Vessels
For coastal West Greenland, TAC is proposed at 23,015 tonnes for commercial fishers and 1,800 tonnes for recreational fishing — a 10% reduction from 2025.
A new trial quota of 5,000 tonnes would allow inshore vessels over six metres to fish outside the three-nautical-mile limit, where cod are typically larger and of higher quality.
In East Greenland’s coastal zone, no TAC will be introduced for now due to limited data; fishing will remain open until more comprehensive biological information becomes available.
The cod quota proposals for 2026 are now under public consultation until 20 November 2025, and feedback from stakeholders will be reviewed before final approval by the Government of Greenland (Naalakkersuisut).