Norway and UK Continue Close Cooperation With 2026 Agreement

In a separate development, Norway has signed a bilateral fisheries agreement with the United Kingdom for 2026, ensuring continued mutual access and quota exchange. The agreement preserves reciprocal rights to fish demersal species in each other’s 30,000-tonne North Sea zones, with details to be set in Norwegian regulations.

Minister Sivertsen Næss described the negotiations as constructive:

“We have had good and constructive negotiations with the UK, and the agreement for 2026 continues a close and well-functioning cooperation in the fisheries area. It provides predictability and a good framework for fishermen in both countries.”

The deal also maintains reciprocal access for pelagic species. Norway can fish up to 20,000 tonnes of North Sea herring in British waters, while the UK can take the same amount of NVG herring in Norwegian waters.

Combined with provisions in the tripartite agreement with the EU and UK, Norwegian fishermen gain access to 26,078 tonnes of North Sea herring in the British zone.

In addition to the collective quota of 30,000 tonnes of demersal fish in the British zone, the parties agreed on a limited quota exchange to safeguard traditional Norwegian fishing outside the North Sea. This includes 400 tonnes of Greenland halibut, 250 tonnes of ling and 250 tonnes of tusk.

Sivertsen Næss highlighted the historical context of this cooperation:

“Due to the proximity and long shared maritime border between us, Norwegian and British fishermen have fished in each other’s waters for many decades. The agreement is therefore of great benefit to both parties’ fishermen.”

 

 

Context and Significance

These agreements are vital for maintaining stability in the fisheries sector, which relies on predictable access to resources and clear management frameworks. They also underscore Norway’s commitment to international cooperation and sustainable fisheries management, balancing economic interests with ecological responsibility.

The arrangements for 2026 reflect a complex negotiation landscape shaped by Brexit, requiring Norway to manage bilateral and tripartite agreements simultaneously. For fishermen in Norway, the EU, and the UK, these deals provide clarity on quotas and access, supporting planning and investment for the year ahead.