ICES advice: Uncertainty calls for continued caution in quota decisions
ICES’ quota advice for Baltic Sea fisheries in 2027 shows some signs of improvement for individual stocks, but the overall situation remains uncertain. BalticWaters argues that this uncertainty must be met with restraint, and that management should focus on rebuilding sustainable and resilient fish populations. The Swedish government is urged to maintain a cautious position ahead of this autumn’s quota negotiations.
The International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) has published its scientific advice, which forms the basis for the European Commission’s proposal for new fishing quotas for 2027. The material shows some signs of improvement for certain species, but also that major uncertainties remain regarding stock size, age structure and the development of the wider ecosystem. Despite several years of severe restrictions and fishing closures, key food fish such as cod and salmon have still not recovered.
Under the EU’s Common Fisheries Policy, fisheries management must apply a precautionary approach. This means that uncertainty about stock status should be met with caution in decision‑making, in order to reduce the risk of further deterioration and create the conditions for recovery.
BalticWaters argues that these uncertainties underline the need for careful, long‑term management.
“Some indicators are pointing in the right direction, but the Baltic Sea is still far from recovered. When several stocks are still rebuilding from weak and uncertain levels, this is not the time to take increased quotas for granted. The focus must now be on rebuilding strong fish populations that can, in the long run, support salmon, cod and a viable fishery in the Baltic Sea,” says Konrad Stralka, CEO of BalticWaters.
BalticWaters is calling for a clear management strategy for Baltic Sea fisheries, centred on the long‑term rebuilding of stocks. Strong fish populations would make it possible to secure stable catches over time, benefiting Swedish commercial fisheries, domestic food production and Sweden’s food security.
“Sweden should continue to advocate for cautious quota decisions and seek support from other Baltic Sea countries that want to see long‑term stock recovery. It would be a mistake to interpret the increased herring quotas as proof that the Baltic Sea has recovered. ICES highlights the uncertainties surrounding the stock’s development and the importance of protecting herring spawning grounds. If we are serious about bringing back salmon and cod in the Baltic Sea, long‑term objectives must outweigh short‑term demands for higher catches,” says Konrad Stralka.
EU Member States are expected to decide on next year’s fishing quotas at the Council of Ministers this autumn.