Greenland has adopted a new management plan for the offshore Greenland halibut fishery in West Greenland for 2026–2030, setting strict rules on quotas, fishing areas, and control to secure long-term biological sustainability.
The plan replaces the current framework from 2021 and will apply from 1 January 2026, subject to review before 2031
The plan covers offshore waters in the Davis Strait and Baffin Bay, outside three nautical miles from the coast. Coastal fisheries and fjords are not included. The stated aim is to keep the stock healthy while maximising long-term yield, based on scientific advice.
Clear rules for quotas and stability
The Greenland government will set annual total allowable catches (TACs) in line with advice from the Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Organisation (NAFO). To avoid sharp swings, TACs may usually change by no more than 15% from one year to the next.
Exceptions are allowed only in exceptional circumstances, such as a sharp decline in stock size or an apparent increase in fishing pressure. In such cases, the Fisheries Council must be consulted before any decision is made. Because the stock is shared, TACs are set after talks with Canada to reach an agreement.
Once the TAC is fixed, it is split 50/50 between Greenland and Canada. Greenland may then allocate parts of its share to foreign partners under bilateral deals. The rest goes to Greenlandic quota holders.
Strict area limits and gear rules
Offshore fishing for Greenland halibut is allowed only in NAFO Area 1 and only beyond three nautical miles from the baseline. Trawl fishing is limited to defined areas that have been fished for many years and are not seen as vulnerable.
A large area between 64°30’N and 68°N remains closed to trawling. Longline fishing is not subject to the same area limits, as it is considered less damaging to the seabed. If corals or other sensitive habitats are found, areas can be closed at short notice.
Strong control and monitoring
The fishery is managed through licences and individual transferable quotas. Vessels must report catches through logbooks, position tracking, and regular activity reports. Larger vessels must use electronic logbooks.
Control is carried out by Greenland Fisheries and Hunting Control, with inspections at sea, in ports, and during landings. Observers may be placed on both Greenlandic and foreign vessels. Violations can result in fines or the loss of fishing rights.
The government says the plan will be revised if significant changes occur in the fishery or new knowledge becomes available.