Algeria gets first dolphinfish fishing quota from 2027

Algeria will be allowed to catch common dolphinfish from 2027, after the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean (GFCM) gave it its first official quota, Algérie 360 reported.

The GFCM, which is linked to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), agreed the quota at its 49th annual session in Rome in late October 2026. Cherif Telli, first vice-president of the Algerian Chamber of Fisheries and Aquaculture, commented on the decision.

"Algerian fishermen are very pleased to be able to start fishing common dolphinfish. This will allow our fishermen to diversify their catches and increase their incomes to improve their socio-economic situation, while respecting the sustainability of Mediterranean fish stocks," Telli said.

This is the first official quota ever given to Algeria for this species. It is set under recommendation GFCM/49/2026/9 and takes effect in 2027.

The Commission's experts validated scientific assessments showing that the stock can be fished without threat to its renewal. That finding convinced member states to widen the group of countries allowed to fish it.

The decision also brings Algeria into the GFCM's shared rules for the Mediterranean. Algeria had already tightened its bluefin tuna rules, adding electronic traceability and 3D cameras.

What fishermen will use

Small-scale fishermen are expected to use fish-aggregating devices, which are handmade devices that gather fish. The method is well known to Mediterranean sailors and suits the selective catch of large fish that live in open water.

Use of these devices will still be regulated.

When can boats fish?

No catch of this species will be allowed from 1 January to 14 August, including both days.

Fish must measure at least 35cm, a size set to protect young fish. Each landing must be declared, and the volumes are monitored at port.

Annual limits will also cap fishing effort and catches. The GFCM Secretariat still has to set the tonnage for each country and the number of boats allowed.