New Mackerel Agreement Sparks Outcry in Iceland
Icelandic industry groups have expressed profound dissatisfaction with a recently concluded mackerel agreement, stating it significantly diminishes Iceland's share of the fishery. The deal, signed on December 16, 2025, involves Iceland, Norway, the United Kingdom, and the Faroe Islands, but notably excludes the European Union and Greenland.
Reduced Share and Controversial Provisions
The Federation of Icelandic Fishing Vessel Owners (SFS) has been particularly vocal, highlighting that the agreement allocates Iceland an initial 12.5% of the Total Allowable Catch (TAC). However, after accounting for payments to access fishing grounds in Norwegian and Faroese waters, Iceland's effective share is reduced to 10.5%. This represents a substantial one-third reduction from the 16.5% share Iceland has operated under in recent years.
SFS criticized the terms, stating, 'None of the other three states has accepted such a substantial reduction in its share.' The organization also expressed disappointment that Iceland received a smaller share than the Faroe Islands, arguing there is 'little, if anything, to justify that outcome, especially considering the presence of mackerel in the respective jurisdictions during scientific surveys over the past two decades.'
A key point of contention is the requirement that two-thirds of Iceland's catch in Norwegian waters must be offered for sale through the Norwegian Fishermen's Sales Organisation (Norges Sildesalgslag). SFS fears this provision could severely impact jobs and value creation within the Icelandic fish processing industry. Furthermore, the SFS criticized the exclusion of fishing industry representatives from the agreement's preparation, contrary to established practice.
Discrepancy with Scientific Advice and Stock Concerns
The agreement sets the Total Allowable Catch (TAC) for 2026 at 299,010 tonnes. This figure stands in stark contrast to the recommendation from the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES), which advised a TAC of 174,357 tonnes for 2026, suggesting a 70% cut. SFS warned that when catches by countries outside the agreement are included, the total catch is likely to reach around 385,000 tonnes, exceeding ICES advice by more than 120% and maintaining a significant risk of stock collapse.
Limited Scope and Future Outlook
The new agreement is valid only until 2028 and does not constitute a comprehensive coastal states agreement, as the European Union and Greenland remain outside the deal. While Iceland's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Thorgerður Katrín Gunnarsdóttir, stated that Iceland has a strong interest in achieving an agreement to manage and rebuild the mackerel stock, and is taking responsibility for sustainable fishing, the industry's concerns highlight ongoing challenges in international fisheries management.
5 Comments
ZmeeLove
Our own government allowed this to happen. Where was the industry's voice in negotiations?
Bella Ciao
While it's important to have an agreement for international fish stocks, the significant reduction in Iceland's share seems disproportionate. It's difficult to reconcile with the country's historical involvement and scientific presence of mackerel.
Muchacha
The minister emphasizes Iceland's commitment to sustainable fishing, which is a positive stance. Yet, the industry's strong disappointment over job impacts and value creation loss indicates a significant disconnect between policy and practical consequences.
Raphael
The push for sustainable fishing is commendable, but the agreement's Total Allowable Catch dramatically exceeds scientific recommendations. This raises serious questions about the long-term health of the mackerel stock despite the stated good intentions.
BuggaBoom
Finally, some international cooperation! It's a tough deal but necessary for shared resources.