News Digest n.1 / 2026
Navigating Change: Towards the Energy Transition in the EU Fisheries and Aquaculture
Registration is now open for the Second High-Level Conference on Energy Transition for the EU Fisheries and Aquaculture Sector, organized by the European Commission (DG MARE) as part of the Energy Transition Partnership (ETP). This event will take place on 17 February 2026 at SPARKS MEETING in Brussels. Notable speakers include Commissioner for Fisheries Costas Kadis and Director-General Charlina Vitcheva, along with representatives from the European Parliament, the EU Council, member states, industry, and NGOs.
Tight supply, firm prices: Why 2026 will test whitefish markets in Norway
Norway's whitefish markets are projected to encounter continued challenges in 2026, marked by low supply and firm prices, predominantly in Europe. Lower quotas and reduced volumes in 2025 have maintained elevated prices, driven by strong demand, especially for cod. The Norwegian Seafood Council anticipates this trend to persist, with limited supply affecting prices.
Gilthead seabream by-products: technical potential, industrial pathway still uncertain
The study from the University of Bologna investigates the valorisation of gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata) by-products in aquaculture, emphasizing the recovery of bioactive proteins from typically discarded tissues. Challenges remain in scaling these processes for commercial viability, including costs and regulatory hurdles, indicating that while promising, further technological advancements are necessary before industrial application can be realized.
Bay of Biscay fishing closure to protect dolphins extended to winter 2026
The European Commission has extended the winter fishing closure in the Bay of Biscay from January 22 to February 20 2026, to safeguard common dolphins and other small cetaceans, which are protected under the EU Habitats Directive. This is the third consecutive year of the closure at the request of Belgium, France, Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain. Approximately 300 fishing vessels will be affected, with financial compensation available through the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund or State aid.
The EU, Norway and the UK agree on fishing opportunities in the North Sea for 2026
On 5 December, the EU, Norway, and the UK finalized an agreement for managing shared fish stocks in the North Sea for 2026, securing 343,000 tonnes of fish, valued at €609 million, for the EU fleet. This includes a new management strategy for North Sea herring to ensure sustainability and a 10-year access to UK waters for herring fleets.
MIT Sea Grant students explore the intersection of technology and offshore aquaculture in Norway
AquaCulture Shock, in partnership with MIT-Scandinavia's MISTI program, facilitates international internships focusing on AI and autonomy in Norway's aquaculture sector, particularly around offshore salmon farming. The initiative is part of ongoing collaborations aimed at advancing aquaculture technology, ensuring fish welfare, and addressing the unique challenges of this evolving industry in which Norway stands as a global leader.
