Greenland has approved a new management plan for shrimp fishing in West Greenland, which will apply from 1 January 2026 through the end of 2030.
The plan sets binding rules for catch limits, quota changes, control measures, and seabed protection, replacing the 2021 framework and shaping one of Greenland’s most important fisheries for the next five years.
The plan makes scientific advice the precise starting point for all key decisions. Annual catch limits will be set based on advice from the scientific council of the Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Organisation, prepared with the Greenland Institute of Natural Resources.
The goal is to maintain fishing pressure at a level that supports long-term, sustainable use of the shrimp stock.
Limits on year-to-year catch changes
To reduce uncertainty for the industry, the plan introduces a firm rule on stability. The total allowable catch, or TAC, may usually rise or fall by no more than 12.5 per cent from one year to the next.
Larger changes are only allowed in defined exceptional cases, such as sharp shifts in scientific advice or signs that the stock is nearing biological limits.
If the scientific advice indicates a significant cut or increase, or if the stock falls to low levels, the Fisheries Council must be consulted before the government makes a decision. If the stock falls further, Greenland may also open talks with Canada, as a small part of the stock lies in Canadian waters.
How quotas will be shared
Once the total catch is set, Greenland will continue to reserve a small share for Canada. This share is decided unilaterally and is usually below 2 per cent of the total. The remaining catch is allocated to Greenlandic operators, with some amounts also used in annual talks with international partners.
The fishery will remain under an individual transferable quota system. Companies are required to fish at least 75 per cent of their annual quota. Repeated failure to do so may result in the sale of unused quota shares. Limited flexibility allows vessels to carry over or borrow up to 25 per cent of quota between years.
Control, seabed protection, and bycatch
The plan keeps strict rules on monitoring and enforcement. Vessels must use electronic logbooks and satellite tracking. Inspections can take place at sea, in ports, and during landings.
To protect sensitive habitats, parts of Melville Bay remain closed to bottom fishing. Fishing in previously untouched areas will require prior approval. Areas can also be closed if surveys or reports show corals, sponges, or other vulnerable seabed life.
The plan also places greater emphasis on reducing catches of small shrimp, which are considered harmful to stock development and long-term value. The effect of these measures will be reviewed before the plan expires.