The NAFO Convention applies to most fishery resources of the Northwest Atlantic except salmon, tunas/marlins...

NAFO Annual Meeting 2024: Key Decisions on Cod, Greenland Halibut and Redfish Stocks

At the 46th Annual Meeting of the Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Organization (NAFO), held in Halifax, Nova Scotia, from September 23–27, 2024, the European Union played a prominent role in shaping the future of sustainable fisheries management.

The main focus of the meeting was the responsible stewardship of critical fish stocks in the Northwest Atlantic, particularly cod and Greenland halibut, which hold considerable importance for the EU.

Key Decisions on Major Fish Stocks:

Cod: NAFO approved a joint EU-Canada proposal to reopen the Northern cod fishery in divisions 2J, 3K, and 3L, revising its previous share allocation, which dated back to 1991. The updated arrangement increases the EU’s quota, reflecting its current composition and fishing capacity. Additionally, the organization increased fishing opportunities for 3M cod, while maintaining protective technical measures for the stock. These decisions reward the sector for its sustainable practices while ensuring a cautious approach to stock preservation.

Greenland Halibut: A new methodology for managing Greenland halibut stocks was adopted, including the introduction of a Harvest Control Rule, which will guide future fishing opportunities in line with the best available scientific advice.

Redfish: For redfish stocks in divisions 3L and 3N, the EU advocated for a precautionary approach, considering uncertainties surrounding the stock’s health. NAFO decided to reduce redfish catches without entirely closing the fisheries. This approach strikes a balance between protecting the stock and continuing essential data collection.

Irminger Sea Redfish: NAFO introduced control measures to support sustainable fishing of the Irminger Sea redfish. These measures require contracting parties to prevent their vessels from participating in transhipments if a moratorium is declared, and to deny port access to any transhipped catches of this stock, unless in distress. This mirrors similar measures already in place in the North East Atlantic Fisheries Commission.

(2025)

ANNEX I – FISHERIES MANAGEMENT

Annex I.A – Annual Quota Table 

CATCH LIMITATIONS 2025 – Article 5. Total allowable catches (TACs) and quotas (metric tons in live weight) for 2025 of particular stocks in Subareas 1–4 and 6 of the NAFO Convention Area.

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Background:

The Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Organization (NAFO) is a regional fisheries management organization (RFMO) responsible for regulating fishing in the high seas of the Northwest Atlantic, beyond Canada’s 200-mile exclusive economic zone. Established in 1979, NAFO works to ensure the long-term conservation and sustainable use of fishery resources while protecting the ecosystems in which they thrive. Thirteen countries, including the EU, Canada, the United States, and Norway, are contracting parties to NAFO.

Role of RFMOs:

RFMOs like NAFO play a crucial role in protecting marine ecosystems and ensuring sustainable fishing practices. They employ various management tools, including catch limits, technical measures, and temporal or spatial restrictions. Decisions are based on scientific advice and enforced through rigorous monitoring and compliance measures.

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