24% of the landings by the UK fleet (by value) were made abroad. Photo: Stockfile/FIS

UK Secures $1.06 Billion in Valuable Fishing Opportunities for 2026

UNITED KINGDOM
Friday, December 12, 2025, 06:00 (GMT + 9)

Landmark Agreements with EU, Norway, and Coastal States Deliver Over 520,000 Tonnes of Catch

The United Kingdom has successfully concluded negotiations with the European Union, Norway, and other coastal states, securing crucial catch opportunities for shared stocks in 2026. These agreements, which include popular whitefish stocks in the North Sea, provide access to over 520,000 tonnes of fishing opportunities, initially estimated at a value of $1.05 billion (£830 million).

Following participation in additional multilateral consultations, the total value of fishing opportunities secured for the UK is confirmed at $1.06 billion (£840 million). A notable aspect of the deals is the increase in the bluefin tuna quota for the UK, rising significantly from 63 tonnes up to 231 tonnes.

These agreements arrive amid "challenging scientific evidence" highlighting significant pressure on several key stocks, including cod, whiting, haddock, sole, and plaice. In response, the terms of the deals mandate that all participating parties must take action to recover and safeguard these stocks for the future.

Fisheries Minister Dame Angela Eagle commented on the outcome: "This year, more than others, it has been vitally important to respond to concerning scientific evidence about fish stock levels. By working closely with the EU, Norway, and other countries, the UK has secured over 520,000 tonnes of valuable fishing opportunities for British fisheries next year while taking action to safeguard stocks for future generations."

She added: "This is a balanced and sustainable approach which will help recover important stocks to healthy and productive levels whilst also giving fishing communities the opportunities they need to thrive.”

The negotiations underscore the UK’s commitment to constructive collaboration with the EU, Norway, and other coastal states, allowing for pragmatic solutions that protect marine ecosystems while supporting coastal communities. The UK’s approach was firmly rooted in sustainability, drawing upon the best available science from the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea to manage fisheries and secure opportunities for UK fleets.

Furthermore, the process considered the experiences of key UK stakeholders, including the UK fishing industry, the recreational sector, and environmental NGOs. The UK government also ensured close collaboration with the devolved governments throughout the negotiations to ensure the benefits are spread across the whole of the UK.

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