Norway and Russia have agreed on a fisheries deal for 2026 that sets the lowest cod quota since 1991, aiming to rebuild fish stocks in the Barents Sea after years of sharp cuts.
The total quota for north-east Arctic cod will be 285,000 tonnes, down 16% from this year, with Norway allocated 139,827 tonnes.
Cod cuts remain severe
Norwegian fisheries minister Marianne Sivertsen Næss said the agreement was vital amid long-term pressure on cod stocks. She said the 2026 quota level would help support the stock’s recovery after several years of reductions. Despite being historically low, the new quota is expected to reduce fishing pressure from 2025 to 2026 significantly.
The talks were described as difficult. According to the minister, the listing of two Russian shipping companies in sanctions affected negotiations. However, both sides still reached an agreement focused on the sustainable management of shared stocks.
Haddock quota rises
While cod quotas fall, haddock quotas will rise sharply. The total haddock quota for 2026 is set at 153,293 tonnes, up 18% from this year. Norway’s share will be 76,345 tonnes. The quota for Greenland halibut will remain unchanged at 19,000 tonnes, with Norway allocated 9,675 tonnes.
The quota for redfish will increase slightly to 69,177 tonnes, up 3%. Norway’s share will be 47,807 tonnes.
No capelin fishery again
As in recent years, there will be no capelin fishery in 2026. The two countries also agreed to continue joint research and technical rules. Stock advice was prepared by a joint Norwegian-Russian scientific group, using recognised international methods.