Sweden Faces Tough EU Negotiations Over Strömming Fishing Quotas in Baltic Sea

Sweden is bracing for difficult negotiations with the European Union regarding 2025 fishing quotas for strömming (sprat) in the Baltic Sea. The EU Commission proposes maintaining current quotas in the central Baltic Sea, covering the region from Gävle to Bornholm, while suggesting a drastic cut of over 50% in the Bottniska viken (Gulf of Bothnia) to protect the species' survival. According to Sweden's Rural Affairs Minister Peter Kullgren (KD), Sweden is currently the sole supporter of the Commission's proposal, with no other EU member backing it, posing risks of isolation in the talks (115875, 115881). Kullgren endorsed the Commission's plan as fundamentally solid and indicated Sweden would accept even lower quotas if necessary. However, the Swedish Social Democrats, led by Åsa Westlund, criticize the government's stance as too lenient and advocate for a total cessation of strömming fishing in the Baltic to ensure sustainability (115875). A significant Swedish concern is the absence of exceptions for small-scale coastal fisheries in the western Baltic, which threatens traditional fishing culture focused on local consumption rather than industrial operations (115875). Historical trends show steep reductions in quotas for sensitive fish species since 2016, and proposed 2026 quotas point to further sharp declines. The upcoming Luxembourg negotiations on October 27-28 will be pivotal in determining the future of strömming fishing in the Baltic Sea region.