Limitations on the snow crab catch, new condition for Norwegian vessels

The Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Fisheries in Norway is implementing new conditions for participation in snow crab fishing to ensure "better profitability". It would be a developed measure already implemented in December 2023.

According to Fisheries and Ocean Minister Marianne Sivertsen Næss, through rigorous participation, "fewer participants will provide more predictability for the operators and limit the environmental impact caused by abandoned and lost gear in the sea."

Prior, the petition for a participation limit was consulted and according to the Ministry, almost all agents agreed on its implementation. Thus, the ministry decided that the measure would come into effect on January 1, 2025.

Precisely, participation is limited by requiring activity in the catch during two of the qualifying years (2020, 2021, 2022 until May 16). Investors can apply for exemptions.

Finally, the recall decision will be notified to all vessel owners and permits will disappear. Also, new conditions for snow crab permits will be communicated.

The new conditions will take effect immediately so that the process of handling applications for new snow crab permits can begin.

For the synergy between the fleets and the land-based industry

Additionally, agreements between vessels with a new snow crab permit and the land-based industry will be encouraged. To this end, it has been decided that 10% of the total snow crab quota will be set aside for the delivery of live snow crab starting in 2025. Vessels will apply to harvest this raw material when collaborating with the industry.

Regarding this measure, the Minister explained: "I am committed to stimulating more activity on land, and I will see if earmarking raw material can contribute. At the same time, we must ensure the profitability of the vessels, and it is necessary to make adjustments in line with new operating patterns."

In April, the Norwegian snow crab fishery obtained Marine Stewardship Council certification due to stock status, ecosystem impact, and management practices.