Fishing has been the Icelandic nation’s lifeline since the 14th century. Not only was fish the backbone of our economy as an export product but also our main food supply. It has shaped our lives, our culture and our language.
Iceland is a nation of fishermen, fish producers and exporters. All together the fish is the livelihood of many Icelandic towns and villages. Today still, 20% of Icelanders work in fisheries and related industries.
Iceland maintains a 200-nautical-mile exclusive fishing zone (758,000 km2), including some of the richest fishing grounds in the world.
We treat our valuable resource with respect: Iceland has one of the most modern and competitive seafood industries in the world. The Icelandic fisheries management system guarantees sustainable harvest and protection of the marine ecosystem. Decisions on allowable catches are made by the Ministry for Fisheries on the basis of scientific advice from the Icelandic Marine Research Institute. Catches are effectively monitored and enforced by the Directorate of Fisheries.
Protections of the resources is important and in Iceland the rules are set according to the fisheries management system based on our long history as a leading fishing nation.
We look towards the future and make long-term goals when dealing with resources, customers, partners and employees.