Greenland and EU Deepen Fisheries and Blue Economy Cooperation
The European Union and Greenland have reaffirmed their commitment to sustainable fisheries and blue economy development following a two-day visit by EU Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans Costas Kadis to Greenland on 15–16 October 2026. Talks with Greenland’s Minister for Fisheries, Hunting, Agriculture and Self-sufficiency, Peter Borg, focused on their fisheries agreement, international cooperation and future priorities for the sector.
The discussions centred on the Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement and its underlying Fisheries Protocol, as both sides explored ways to strengthen cooperation. The EU is an important market for Greenland’s fish and shellfish products, while fisheries remain central to Greenland’s economy. The meeting also addressed shared objectives under the Joint Declaration signed by the EU, Denmark and Greenland earlier this year.
EU Commissioner Visits Key Fisheries Institutions
During the visit, Minister Borg introduced Commissioner Kadis to Greenland’s fisheries industry and the institutions responsible for managing the sector. The programme included visits to the Greenland Fisheries and Hunting Control Authority, the EU Border Inspection Post, the Greenland Institute of Natural Resources, the SILA biology programme at Greenland University and Royal Greenland.
The visits provided an opportunity to examine the regulatory, scientific and commercial operations supporting Greenland’s fisheries. These institutions play roles in fisheries management, marine research, inspection and the seafood industry.
Fisheries Agreement Dating Back to 1985
Greenland and the EU have maintained a fisheries agreement since 1985, following Greenland’s departure from the European Communities. Their cooperation also extends to international fisheries forums, reflecting the importance of coordinated management of marine resources.
Minister Borg said the partnership must continue to evolve in line with Greenland’s development. He welcomed the commissioner’s visit and described their discussions as constructive, emphasising the value of continued dialogue on fisheries and the blue economy.
Both Sides Seek Practical Cooperation
Commissioner Kadis said the EU and Greenland shared a strong commitment to sustainable fisheries and a thriving blue economy. He described the visit as an opportunity to strengthen their partnership, deepen dialogue and identify new areas of cooperation.
He also emphasised the importance of turning the shared priorities of the EU, Denmark and Greenland into practical action that delivers sustainable fisheries, economic opportunities and long-term benefits for local communities.
What the Partnership Means for the Blue Economy
The discussions underline the close relationship between fisheries, seafood trade and economic development in Greenland. Maintaining cooperation on fisheries management, scientific research and international market access will remain important to the sector.
For both partners, the challenge is to ensure that fisheries cooperation continues to reflect Greenland’s evolving priorities while supporting the sustainable use of marine resources. The latest visit reaffirmed their commitment to continued engagement and closer collaboration under the Joint Declaration.
