An Evolution in Greenland’s Fishing Landscape
In a notable shift for Greenland’s fishing community, the number of dinghy fishermen has risen from 1,836 in 2016 to 1,983 in 2024. Many of these individuals have transitioned to the Individual Transferable Quotas (ITQ) system following the enactment of a new Fisheries Act at the beginning of this year. This change marks a significant transformation in the way fishermen operate, requiring them to navigate a series of new regulations, including those tied to the ITQ system. According to the fishing organization KNAPK, these changes have left many in the fishing community feeling confused. In response, the Ministry has committed to enhancing its information campaign about the ITQ, which has recently been disseminated across various media platforms.
Recent Reports Shed Light on Fishing Trends
Recently, the Naalakkersuisut released a report detailing the evolution of dinghy fishing from 2016 to 2024. This document is designed not only to establish a comprehensive database for policymakers but also to facilitate future analyses of coastal dinghy fishing—an area that has seen rapid development in recent years. Peter Borg, the Minister for Fisheries, Catching, Agriculture, and Self-sufficiency, has expressed the intention to update this report every five years, particularly focusing on coastal dinghy fishermen who are navigating the changes in local fishing resources.
Moreover, the annual Fisheries Report for 2024 has also been published, representing the first under the new Fisheries Act. This report aims to provide an in-depth overview of various aspects of fisheries management, encompassing legislative developments, economic trends, international cooperation, and oversight efforts. With an eye toward transparency, the Naalakkersuisut has indicated that it intends for this annual report to be discussed in the Inatsisartut, emphasizing the critical importance of the fishing industry for the nation.
Given the rapidly evolving fishing landscape, the Naalakkersuisut is keen to continue its information campaign about the ITQ system—albeit with necessary adjustments—to ensure fishermen receive thorough and accurate guidance. As part of this initiative, starting at the beginning of next year, every ITQ license will come with a brief appendix detailing the new regulations.
Understanding License Issuance and Quota Flexibility
Under the ITQ system, dinghy fishermen will no longer face the annual requirement of applying for licenses for the species they wish to catch. Once the quotas for the upcoming year are determined, these quotas will be automatically calculated based on the fishermen’s quota share. As a result, licenses will be issued ahead of the fishing season, streamlining the process significantly.
For those who have not utilized their halibut quota, a notable feature of the ITQ system allows for up to 25 percent of any unused quota to be rolled over into the next year. The department plans to make updated licenses available that reflect these transfers, giving fishermen a chance to utilize these amounts until the end of the following year. However, it’s crucial to note that only 25 percent of unused quota can be carried over; any excess will not transfer.
Peter Borg cautions that managing these quotas effectively is essential, suggesting that fishermen consider selling excess quota if they anticipate difficulty in reaching the required utilization threshold.
The Dynamics of Quota Trading
Should a dinghy fisherman find himself short on quota within the year, he has two main avenues for increasing his catch capacity. The first is purchasing additional annual quota, which can only be fished within the same year. The second option involves acquiring a quota share from another fisherman, which includes an annual quota for future use. As the department explains, whether this newly purchased quota share can be utilized in the current year hinges on the seller’s fishing activities.
Additionally, fishermen have the option to sell up to 10 percent of their annual quota should unforeseen circumstances prevent them from fishing their full amount. In special cases, such as economic or technical hardships, it’s possible to receive permission to sell more than the standard limit.
Fishermen might also consider selling part or all of their quota share, particularly if they have surplus allocation or are looking to retire. However, it’s essential to remember that selling a quota share will permanently alter the fisherman’s future quota entitlements.
The Nine-Month Utilization Rule
With the newfound quotas, comes a strict utilization obligation, where fishermen must use a minimum of 75 percent of their quota each year. Failure to meet this threshold for three consecutive years could result in the revocation of their quota share, allowing it to be reallocated to those who can make better use of it. The intent of this regulation is to align quota shares with actual fishing capacities, ensuring a more efficient and sustainable fishing industry.
However, not meeting this obligation due to valid reasons such as illness or operational delays does not lead to automatic penalties. The Fisheries Act provides protections in these circumstances, ensuring that fishermen are not unduly penalized for factors beyond their control.
A Call for Clarity
As the newly appointed chairman of KNAPK, Pele Blytmann, notes, there has been an ongoing call for a comprehensive information campaign regarding the recent changes affecting coastal fishermen. He expressed concern that the implementation of the Fisheries Act happened without adequate preparation and information, leading to widespread confusion among the fishing community. The renewed emphasis on education and clarity from the department, he believes, is a positive step toward addressing these challenges and supporting the fishermen who are integral to Greenland’s coastal economy.