Norway – Russia Reach Barents Sea Fisheries Agreement for 2026

The agreement comes amid a continuous decline in the Northeast Arctic cod stock in recent years, forcing the parties to adopt more precautionary management measures. This year’s negotiations took place under complex conditions and heightened political tensions; nevertheless, both sides were able to agree on a quota framework for the main target species, continuing the allocation mechanism applied in previous years.

Under the agreement, the total quota for Northeast Arctic cod in 2026 is set at 285,000 tonnes, representing a 16% reduction compared to 2025. The quota cut is intended to ease fishing pressure and allow the cod stock to recover after several years of decline. Cod quotas are allocated to Norway, Russia, and third countries in line with principles that have been consistently applied in recent years. Of this total, Norway’s share amounts to 139,827 tonnes.

 

For other species, the 2026 haddock quota has been increased to 153,293 tonnes, up 18% from 2025, reflecting a more positive assessment of stock status. The quota for Greenland halibut is maintained at 19,000 tonnes, while the redfish quota reaches 69,177 tonnes, a slight increase of 3% compared to the previous year. As in 2025, the parties agreed not to open a capelin fishery in 2026.

Alongside the quota agreement, Norway confirmed that from 1 January 2026 it will ban two major Russian seafood companies, Norebo and Murman Seafood, from accessing Norway’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and ports. Related sanctions measures will continue to remain in force.

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