EU Finalizes Fishing Quotas for 2026 After Extended Negotiations

European Union fisheries ministers have successfully concluded negotiations on fishing quotas for 2026, establishing new catch limits and fishing efforts after two days of intensive discussions. The agreement, reached by the EU Council of Agriculture and Fisheries Ministers, regulates key commercial fish stocks in the Atlantic, North Sea, Mediterranean, and Black Sea, setting the groundwork for sustainable fishing practices moving forward.

Following a comprehensive review, the ministers determined that fishing effort, which considers vessel size and engine power alongside the number of days spent fishing, would be adjusted to balance scientific recommendations with the economic realities faced by the fishing sector. Danish fisheries minister Jacob Jensen emphasized that the agreement provides “certainty about fishing possibilities for 2026,” aiming to create “the best possible conditions for a sustainable fisheries sector in the future.”

Details of the Quotas by Region

For the Atlantic and North Sea, the EU will autonomously manage a total of 24 total allowable catches (TACs). Notable increases include a 12% rise in catch limits for megrim in waters south of the Bay of Biscay and a substantial 54% increase for Norway lobster in the same region. Conversely, several species will see reductions in permitted catches. Standard sole in the Kattegat and Baltic regions will face a significant 45% decrease, while horse mackerel in Portuguese waters will be reduced by 5%. Pollack and monkfish will also see decreases of 13% and 1%, respectively.

Mackerel presents a unique case this year; provisional quotas for the first half of 2026 have been set with a 70% reduction, contingent upon the outcome of ongoing consultations among North-East Atlantic coastal countries.

In the Western Mediterranean, the fishing effort level for trawlers will remain unchanged from 2025, along with limits for blue and red shrimp. Meanwhile, in the Black Sea, the numbers for turbot are slightly lower compared to the previous year, indicating ongoing challenges in maintaining fish populations in that area.

The agreement reflects a concerted effort by the EU to ensure responsible fishing practices while supporting the livelihoods of those within the fishing industry. As the quotas take effect, member states will continue to monitor the situation, adapting to changes in fish populations and environmental conditions.