EU fishing industry representatives urge stricter trade measures against Norway over unilateral quotas, overfishing, and lack of reciprocity
The European Parliament’s Committee on Fisheries (PECH) held a public hearing yesterday, highlighting deep tensions in EU-Norway fisheries relations. Industry leaders, MEPs, and European Commission officials voiced mounting frustration over Norway’s unilateral quota decisions and its lack of reciprocity in access to fishing waters and markets.
Sustainability at Stake in the Northeast Atlantic
At the heart of the discussions was the issue of fisheries management in the Northeast Atlantic. Iván López, Chair of the Long Distance Advisory Council (LDAC), warned that Norway’s actions threaten the sustainability of one of the world’s best-managed fisheries.
“Norway presents itself as a responsible partner, yet continuously sides with Russia and the Faroe Islands to undermine EU efforts for sustainable fishing,” he stated.
López pointed to Norway’s continued support of transshipments at sea and its reluctance to enforce stricter sustainability standards. He further criticised the country’s refusal to allow EU investments in its fishing industry, despite Norway’s overwhelming reliance on EU markets—57% of the value of its seafood exports and 53% of its volume go to the bloc.
Quota Disputes and Unilateral Decisions
Tim Heddema, Chair of the Pelagic Freezer-Trawler Association (PFA), shed light on the ongoing impasse in coastal states negotiations. Talks on sharing arrangements for key stocks, such as mackerel, blue whiting, and Atlanto-Scandian herring, have failed for over a decade.
Heddema condemned Norway’s “excessive, unjustified unilateral quotas,” with increases of up to 55% compared to previous agreements.
“Norway and the Faroe Islands are setting quotas far beyond sustainable levels, leading to overfishing,” he said, adding that the UK’s decision to enter a partial agreement with Norway further legitimised irresponsible quota allocations.
Esben Sverdrup-Jensen, President of the European Association of Fish Producers Organizations (EAPO), echoed these concerns, describing the EU-Norway relationship as a “one-way street.” He criticised Norway’s prioritisation of its own industry over sustainability, particularly its unilateral bans on EU vessels in certain fisheries.
Calls for a Stronger EU Response
Speakers at the hearing urged the European Commission to take a firmer stance. López called for an end to tariff exemptions for Norwegian seafood until fisheries disputes are resolved, warning that the EU has been “too nice” in its approach.
“We need to stop acting like Ned Flanders—polite and passive—while Norway takes advantage,” he said.
Both Sverdrup-Jensen and Heddema supported linking fisheries negotiations to market access, arguing that Norway should not enjoy free trade benefits without meeting EU sustainability standards.
European Commission officials acknowledged the frustrations but cautioned against hasty action. Fabrizio Donatella, Director at DG MARE, stressed that Norway remains a strategic partner and that the EU must balance firmness with diplomacy.
“The Commission is working closely with industry and member states to ensure stability in access to fishing waters and economic interests,” he assured.
Political Pressure on the Horizon
The hearing underscored a growing political push within the European Parliament for stronger trade measures against Norway. Francisco Millán Mon, MEP, summarised the key grievances, stating that “Norway is not cooperating,” with numerous violations of agreements, including overfishing, quota reductions, and restrictions on EU vessels.
Parliament is set to vote in the coming weeks on a financial mechanism linked to Norway’s EEA membership, which could provide leverage for fisheries negotiations.
Conclusion: A Defining Moment for EU-Norway Relations
With Brexit reshaping power dynamics, Norway appears less inclined to prioritise EU interests. However, the EU remains Norway’s primary seafood market, providing significant leverage if trade measures are pursued. As negotiations continue, European fishers are calling for decisive action to prevent further losses and ensure sustainable fisheries management in the Northeast Atlantic.
The coming weeks will reveal whether the EU adopts a tougher stance or continues its diplomatic approach.
Source: Editor