Mediterranean Coryphene Quota Awarded to Algerian Fleet
Algeria has successfully secured its inaugural fishing quota for coryphene in the Mediterranean, an achievement facilitated by the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean (CGPM), which diversifies national marine resource management.
Algeria has obtained its first fishing quota for coryphene in the Mediterranean, a decision facilitated by the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean (CGPM), an specialized body of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). This strategic measure is set to diversify the country's marine captures and is expected to increase revenues for Algerian fishermen. The new regional management plan for coryphene exploitation is scheduled to be implemented from 2027 to 2031.
The attribution of this quota to Algeria by the CGPM signifies an unprecedented opportunity for the national fisheries sector. Coryphene, a large pelagic fish, holds significant market value across the Mediterranean. Scientific monitoring conducted since 2023 has indicated that current fish stocks are healthy enough to support sustainable commercial exploitation, which directly led to the opening of new access rights for local fleets. Cherif Telli, the first vice-president of the Algerian Chamber of Fishing and Aquaculture, expressed collective satisfaction with this decision, highlighting its potential for professionals to expand their range of catches, generate new incomes, and enhance traditional small-scale fishing techniques.
While the exact tonnage and authorized vessel volume have not yet been disclosed by the FAO, the inclusion of the national fleet within this multilateral framework formally establishes Algeria's position in the Mediterranean fisheries landscape. The exercise of these rights will be strictly regulated by the 2027-2031 management plan, which includes annual catch limits, a minimum catch size of 35 centimeters, rigorous monitoring of landings, and a total biological rest period between January 1 and August 14. This approval granted to Algeria resulted from a broader summit where 25 member nations ratified eleven binding recommendations, further strengthening vessel surveillance, sea controls, and the preservation of other fragile species such as deep-sea red shrimps and European hake.
