1Council Regulation (EU) 2026/266 of 26 January 2026 fixing for 2026 the fishing opportunities for certain fish stocks and groups of fish stocks applicable in the Mediterranean and Black Seas

Council Regulation (EU) 2026/266 of 26 January 2026 fixing for 2026 the fishing opportunities for certain fish stocks and groups of fish stocks applicable in the Mediterranean and Black Seas THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION, Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and in particular Article 43(3) thereof, Having regard to the proposal from the European Commission, Whereas: (1) The Council is to adopt measures on the fixing and allocation of fishing opportunities, including certain conditions functionally linked to those fishing opportunities, as appropriate. Article 16(1) of Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2013 on the Common Fisheries Policy, amending Council Regulations (EC) No 1954/2003 and (EC) No 1224/2009 and repealing Council Regulations (EC) No 2371/2002 and (EC) No 639/2004 and Council decision 2004/585/EC (OJ L 354, 28.12.2013, p. 22, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2013/1380/oj). provides that fishing opportunities are to be allocated to Member States in such a way as to ensure the relative stability of fishing activities of each Member State for each fish stock or fishery. Article 16(4) of Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013 provides that fishing opportunities are to be fixed in accordance with the objectives of the Common Fisheries Policy set out in Article 2(2) of that Regulation. (2) Therefore, in accordance with Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013, the fishing opportunities for 2026 should be fixed on the basis of available scientific advice, taking into account biological and socioeconomic aspects whilst ensuring fair treatment between fishing sectors, as well as the opinions expressed during consultations with stakeholders. (3) At its 47th annual meeting in 2024, the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean (GFCM) adopted Recommendation GFCM/47/2024/1 which establishes long-term management measures for European eel (Anguilla anguilla) as foreseen by Recommendation GFCM/46/2023/16 on a long-term management plan for European eel (GFCM geographical subareas (GFCM GSAs) 1 to 27). Recommendation GFCM/47/2024/1 maintains for 2026 the six-month closure period for commercial fisheries and a ban on recreational fisheries. Furthermore, that Recommendation limits the commercial fishing activities for glass eels to a period of two months and allows such fishing only under certain conditions. Those measures are to apply to all marine waters of the Mediterranean Sea and to freshwaters, as well as to brackish waters, including estuaries, coastal lagoons and transitional waters, in accordance with that Recommendation. Those measures should be implemented in Union law. (4) At its 47th annual meeting in 2024, the GFCM adopted Recommendation GFCM/47/2024/2 which establishes long-term measures for the sustainable exploitation of red coral (Corallium rubrum) as foreseen by Recommendation GFCM/43/2019/4 on a management plan for the sustainable exploitation of red coral in the Mediterranean Sea (GFCM GSAs 1 to 27). Recommendation GFCM/47/2024/2 maintains for 2026 the freezing of fishing effort expressed as a maximum number of fishing authorisations and harvest limits for red coral. Those measures should be implemented in Union law.

(5) At its 46th annual meeting in 2023, the GFCM adopted Recommendation GFCM/46/2023/14 on a multiannual management plan for the sustainable exploitation of common dolphinfish (Coryphaena hippurus) in the Mediterranean Sea (GFCM GSAs 1 to 27). That Recommendation introduced, consistent with the precautionary approach and for a transitional period of 2024 to 2026, a fleet capacity ceiling, a freeze on the capacity of fish aggregating devices (FADs) per vessel, a catch limit and a temporal closure. For recreational fisheries, Recommendation GFCM/46/2023/14 further provides that a daily bag limit is to be observed as well as a prohibition period. Those measures have been implemented in Union law since 2024 by means of Council Regulations (EU) 2024/259 Council Regulation (EU) 2024/259 of 10 January 2024 fixing for 2024 the fishing opportunities for certain fish stocks and groups of fish stocks applicable in the Mediterranean and Black Seas (OJ L, 2024/259, 11.1.2024, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/259/oj). and (EU) 2025/219 Council Regulation (EU) 2025/219 of 30 January 2025 fixing for 2025 the fishing opportunities for certain fish stocks and groups of fish stocks applicable in the Mediterranean and Black Seas (OJ L, 2025/219, 4.2.2025, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2025/219/oj). . Those measures should continue to be implemented in Union law for 2026. Those measures are without prejudice to the management measures proposed by the Scientific Advisory Committee within GFCM for the long-term management plan for the period 2027 to 2031. (6) Regulation (EU) 2019/1022 of the European Parliament and of the Council Regulation (EU) 2019/1022 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 June 2019 establishing a multiannual plan for the fisheries exploiting demersal stocks in the western Mediterranean Sea and amending Regulation (EU) No 508/2014 (OJ L 172, 26.6.2019, p. 1, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2019/1022/oj). established a multiannual plan for the fisheries exploiting demersal stocks in the western Mediterranean Sea (GFCM GSAs 1, 2, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11). That plan sets out targets and measures for the long-term conservation and sustainable exploitation of stocks covered by it. This includes measures to reach and maintain the maximum sustainable yield (MSY) for target stocks, ensuring that exploitation of living marine biological resources restores and maintains populations of harvested species above levels which can produce the MSY. (7) In accordance with Article 4(1) of Regulation (EU) 2019/1022, fishing opportunities for stocks listed in Article 1(2) of that Regulation are to be fixed in accordance with the range of fishing mortality values resulting in MSY (ranges of FMSY), or at a lower level, and in accordance with the safeguards provided for in that Regulation. The ranges of FMSY are set out in the relevant advice of the Scientific, Technical and Economic Committee for Fisheries (STECF). Where no adequate scientific information is available, fishing opportunities for stocks referred to in Article 1(2) and Article 1(3) of that Regulation are to be fixed in accordance with the precautionary approach to fisheries management, in accordance with Article 4(6) of that Regulation.

(8) Moreover, fishing opportunities are to be expressed as a maximum allowable fishing effort for trawlers and longliners, set in accordance with the fishing effort regime laid down in Article 7 of Regulation (EU) 2019/1022, and as maximum catch limits for blue and red shrimp (Aristeus antennatus) and giant red shrimp (Aristaeomorpha foliacea) in deep waters, set in accordance with scientific advice and Article 16(4) of Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013. (9) STECF was requested to simulate a wide range of effort management scenarios for different effort management units (EMU), namely EMU 1 (GFCM GSAs 1, 2, 5, 6 and 7) and EMU 2 (GFCM GSAs 8, 9, 10 and 11), up to 2030. STECF provided advice showing that the selectivity efforts made in 2025 significantly reduce fishing mortality for some stocks and bring it closer to FMSY, while also highlighting the necessity of implementing additional management measures. However, STECF was unable to fully address the different outcomes of the selectivity measures in 2025. In order to allow for additional time for scientific review of the selectivity efforts made in 2025 and 2024, the fishing effort level should be maintained at the level set for 2025 by Regulation (EU) 2025/219. (10) In 2025, STECF advised that longliners have an impact on European hake (Merluccius merluccius) spawners, in particular in GFCM GSAs 8, 9, 10 and 11. In GFCM GSAs 1, 2, 5, 6 and 7, it is appropriate to maintain, for 2026, the maximum allowable fishing effort for longliners at the levels set for 2025 by Regulation (EU) 2025/219, on the basis of Article 7(5) of Regulation (EU) 2019/1022. (11) In 2025, STECF advised that the fishing mortality of blue and red shrimp in GFCM GSAs 1, 2, 5, 6 and 7 remains far from sustainable levels and that further management measures are thus required in addition to fishing effort reduction. In order to build on the measures adopted in 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025, and in accordance with Article 16(4) of the Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013, it is therefore appropriate to complement the fishing effort regime with maximum catch limits and to set the maximum catch limits for blue and red shrimp in GFCM GSAs 1, 2, 5, 6 and 7 at the level set for 2025 by Regulation (EU) 2025/219. (12) In 2025, STECF advised that further management measures for blue and red shrimp in GFCM GSAs 8, 9, 10 and 11 are required in addition to fishing effort reduction. It is therefore appropriate to complement the fishing effort regime with maximum catch limits, to build on the measures adopted in 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025, and in accordance with Article 16(4) of Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013. The maximum catch limits for blue and red shrimp in GFCM GSAs 8, 9, 10 and 11 should be maintained at the level set for 2025 by Regulation (EU) 2025/219. (13) In 2025, STECF advised that further management measures for giant red shrimp in GFCM GSAs 8, 9, 10 and 11 are required in addition to fishing effort reduction. It is therefore appropriate to complement the fishing effort regime with maximum catch limits, in order to build on the measures adopted in 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025, and to set the maximum catch limits for giant red shrimp in GFCM GSAs 8, 9, 10 and 11 at the level set for 2025 by Regulation (EU) 2025/219.

(14) In order to promote the use of selectivity of fishing gear and to establish efficient closure areas to protect juvenile fish and spawners, Council Regulation (EU) 2022/110 Council Regulation (EU) 2022/110 of 27 January 2022 fixing for 2022 the fishing opportunities for certain fish stocks and groups of fish stocks applicable in the Mediterranean and Black Seas (OJ L 21, 31.1.2022, p. 165, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2022/110/oj). established a compensation mechanism in relation to the effort regime for trawlers. As STECF continues to recommend for 2026 the further improvement of selectivity of fishing gear and of efficiency of closure areas to protect juvenile fish and spawners, and as those measures have a demonstrated impact on the fishing mortality, Member States should be able to allocate additional fishing days to a fishing vessel if it complies with at least one such measure set at national level. The Member State concerned should not allocate additional fishing days that would result in the level of fishing effort set for the relevant fishing effort group by Regulation (EU) 2024/259, that is, Annex III and Article 8, being exceeded. (15) In accordance with Article 6 of Regulation (EU) 2019/1022, where scientific advice shows that the spawning stock biomass of any of the stocks referred to in Article 1(2) of that Regulation is below the precautionary biomass reference point (BPA), or is below the limit biomass reference point (BLIM), remedial measures are to be taken to ensure the rapid return of the stocks to levels above those capable of producing MSY. In 2025, STECF concluded that seven of the stocks concerned have a spawning stock biomass outside safe biological limits, namely Norway lobster (Nephrops norvegicus) in GFCM GSAs 6, 9 and 11, European hake in GFCM GSAs 1, 5, 6 and 7, European hake in GFCM GSAs 8, 9, 10 and 11, blue and red shrimp in GFCM GSAs 6 and 7, and striped red mullet (Mullus surmuletus) in GFCM GSA 5. Therefore, remedial measures should be implemented in Union law, providing for catch limits for European hake for fishing vessels using gillnets and trammel nets, and for the introduction of a minimum conservation reference size for Norway lobster. (16) At its 44th annual meeting in 2021, the GFCM adopted Recommendation GFCM/44/2021/20 on a multiannual management plan for the sustainable exploitation of small pelagic stocks in the Adriatic Sea (GFCM GSAs 17 and 18), which introduced from 2022 to 2029 a maximum level of catches and a related fleet capacity ceiling for purse seiners and pelagic trawlers targeting small pelagics. Those measures that relate to 2026 should be implemented in Union law. (17) At its 48th annual session in 2025, the GFCM adopted Recommendation GFCM/48/2025/5 on a long-term fishing regime and the establishment of catch limits in 2026 for small pelagic stocks in the Adriatic Sea (GFCM GSAs 17 and 18), amending Recommendation GFCM/44/2021/20 and repealing Recommendations GFCM/42/2018/8, GFCM/40/2016/3, GFCM/39/2015/1, GFCM/38/2014/1, GFCM/37/2013/1 and GFCM/30/2006/1. Recommendation GFCM/48/2025/5 establishes for 2026 catch limits for anchovy (Engraulis encrasicolus) and sardines (Sardina pilchardus), in line with the harvest control rules. The allocation of fishing opportunities among Member States should be based on the historical catches of each Member State concerned. Those measures should be implemented in Union law.

(18) At its 43rd annual meeting in 2019, the GFCM adopted Recommendation GFCM/43/2019/5 on a multiannual management plan for sustainable demersal fisheries in the Adriatic Sea (GFCM GSAs 17 and 18), which introduced a fishing effort regime and a fleet capacity ceiling for certain demersal stocks, as well as an obligation to reach FMSY for the key stocks in 2026. Those measures that relate to 2026 should be implemented in Union law. (19) At its 48th annual session in 2025, the GFCM adopted Recommendation GFCM/48/2025/6 on the implementation of a fishing effort regime for key demersal stocks in the Adriatic Sea (GFCM GSAs 17 and 18) in 2026, stemming from Recommendation GFCM/43/2019/5. Recommendation GFCM/48/2025/6 provides for a reduction of the fishing effort regime for otter-trawlers by 9,6 % and an increase of 3 % of the 2025 effort levels for beam-trawlers. In order to implement those measures in Union law, 9,6 % should therefore be deducted from the maximum allowable fishing effort for otter-trawlers set for 2025 by Regulation (EU) 2025/219 and the maximum allowable fishing effort for beam-trawlers should be increased by 3 % compared to 2025 levels. (20) Taking into account the particularities of the Slovenian fleet and its marginal impact on the stocks of small pelagic and demersal stocks, and in accordance with paragraph 33 of Recommendation GFCM/44/2021/20 and paragraph 13 of Recommendation GFCM/43/2019/5, it is appropriate to preserve existing fishing patterns and to ensure access by the Slovenian fleet to a minimum quantity of small pelagic species and a minimum effort allocation for demersal stocks. (21) At its 45th annual meeting in 2022, the GFCM adopted Recommendation GFCM/45/2022/4 on a multiannual management plan for the sustainable exploitation of demersal stocks in the Strait of Sicily (GFCM GSAs 12 to 16), repealing Recommendations GFCM/44/2021/12 and GFCM/42/2018/5. Recommendation GFCM/45/2022/4 introduced an effort regime for European hake and catch limits for deep-water rose shrimp (Parapenaeus longirostris), as well as a fishing capacity freeze. Those measures that relate to 2026 should be implemented in Union law. (22) At its 48th annual session in 2025, the GFCM adopted Recommendation GFCM/48/2025/2 on the extension of the transitional period of the multiannual management plan for the sustainable exploitation of demersal stocks in the Strait of Sicily (GFCM GSAs 12 to 16), amending Recommendation GFCM/45/2022/4. Recommendation GFCM/48/2025/2 provides for the extension by one year of the transitional period of the management plan and maintains for 2026 the fishing opportunities set in 2025. In order to implement those measures in Union law, maximum level of catches set for 2025 by Regulation (EU) 2025/219 should therefore be maintained for 2026. (23) At its 45th annual meeting in 2022, the GFCM adopted Recommendation GFCM/45/2022/5 on a multiannual management plan for the sustainable exploitation of giant red shrimp and blue and red shrimp stocks in the Strait of Sicily (GFCM GSAs 12 to 16), repealing Recommendations GFCM/44/2021/7 and GFCM/43/2019/6. Recommendation GFCM/45/2022/5 introduced a catch limit and a fishing capacity freeze. Those measures that relate to 2026 should be implemented in Union law.

(24) At its 48th annual session in 2025, the GFCM adopted Recommendation GFCM/48/2025/9 on the extension of the transitional period of the multiannual management plan for the sustainable exploitation of giant red shrimp and blue and red shrimp stocks in the Strait of Sicily (GFCM GSAs 12 to 16), amending Recommendation GFCM/45/2022/5. For 2026, Recommendation GFCM/48/2025/9 provides for the extension by one year of the transitional period of the management plan and a reduction of 3 % of the catch limits for giant red shrimp and blue and red shrimp. In order to implement those measures in Union law, 3 % should therefore be deducted from the maximum catch limits for giant red shrimp and blue and red shrimp set for 2025 by Regulation (EU) 2025/219. (25) At its 45th annual meeting in 2022, the GFCM adopted Recommendation GFCM/45/2022/6 on a multiannual management plan for the sustainable exploitation of giant red shrimp and blue and red shrimp stocks in the Ionian Sea (GFCM GSAs 19 to 21), repealing Recommendations GFCM/44/2021/8 and GFCM/42/2018/4. Recommendation GFCM/45/2022/6 introduced a catch limit and a fishing capacity freeze. Those measures that relate to 2026 should be implemented in Union law. (26) At its 48th annual session in 2025, the GFCM adopted Recommendation GFCM/48/2025/3 on the extension of the transitional period of the multiannual management plan for the sustainable exploitation of giant red shrimp and blue and red shrimp in the Ionian Sea (GFCM GSAs 19 to 21), amending Recommendation GFCM/45/2022/6. For 2026, Recommendation GFCM/48/2025/3 provides for the extension by one year of the transitional period of the management plan and a reduction of 3 % of the catch limits for giant red shrimp and blue and red shrimp. In order to implement those measures in Union law, 3 % should therefore be deducted from the maximum catch limits for giant red shrimp and blue and red shrimp set for 2025 by Regulation (EU) 2025/219. (27) At its 45th annual meeting in 2022, the GFCM adopted Recommendation GFCM/45/2022/7 on a multiannual management plan for the sustainable exploitation of giant red shrimp and blue and red shrimp stocks in the Levant Sea (GFCM GSAs 24 to 27), repealing Recommendations GFCM/44/2021/6 and GFCM/42/2018/3. Recommendation GFCM/45/2022/7 introduced a catch limit and a fishing capacity freeze. Those measures that relate to 2026 should be implemented in Union law. (28) At its 48th annual session in 2025, the GFCM adopted Recommendation GFCM/48/2025/4 on the extension of the transitional period of the multiannual management plan for sustainable demersal trawl fisheries targeting giant red shrimp and blue and red shrimp in the Levant Sea (GFCM GSAs 24 to 27), amending Recommendation GFCM/45/2022/7. For 2026, Recommendation GFCM/48/2025/4 provides for the extension by one year of the transitional period of the management plan and a reduction of 3 % of the catch limits for giant red shrimp and blue and red shrimp. In order to implement those measures into Union law, 3 % should therefore be deducted from the maximum catch limits for giant red shrimp and blue and red shrimp set for 2025 by Regulation (EU) 2025/219.

(29) At its 45th annual meeting in 2022, the GFCM adopted Recommendation GFCM/45/2022/3 on a multiannual management plan for the sustainable exploitation of blackspot seabream (Pagellus bogaraveo) in the Alboran Sea (GFCM GSAs 1 to 3), repealing Recommendations GFCM/44/2021/4, GFCM/43/2019/2 and GFCM/41/2017/2. Recommendation GFCM/45/2022/3 introduced a maximum number of longliners and handliners authorised for fishing in Alboran Sea. That measure should be implemented in Union law. (30) At its 48th annual session in 2025, the GFCM adopted Recommendation GFCM/48/2025/7 on a long-term fishing regime for blackspot seabream in the Alboran Sea (GFCM GSAs 1 to 3), stemming from Recommendation GFCM/45/2022/3 and repealing Recommendations GFCM/47/2024/3 and GFCM/46/2023/15. For 2026, Recommendation GFCM/48/2025/7 introduced a reduction of 56 % of the catch limits for blackspot seabream. In order to implement those measures into Union law, 56 % should therefore be deducted from the maximum catch limits for blackspot seabream set for 2025 by Regulation (EU) 2025/219. (31) Based on the scientific advice provided by the GFCM Working Group for the Black Sea, the current level of fishing mortality of sprat (Sprattus sprattus) should be maintained to ensure the sustainability of sprat stocks in the Black Sea (GFCM GSA 29). It is therefore appropriate to continue setting an autonomous quota for this stock. (32) At its 47th annual meeting in 2024, the GFCM adopted Recommendation GFCM/47/2024/8 amending Recommendations GFCM/43/2019/3 and GFCM/41/2017/4 on a multiannual management plan for turbot (Scophthalmus maximus) fisheries in the Black Sea (GFCM GSA 29). Recommendation GFCM/47/2024/8 introduced an updated regional total allowable catch (TAC) and a quota allocation scheme for turbot. In accordance with Recommendation GFCM/41/2017/4, the two-month closure period and the limitation of fishing days to 180 per year are functionally linked to the fishing opportunities for turbot, as, without those measures, the TAC would have to be reduced to ensure the recovery of that species. Those measures that relate to 2026 should be implemented in Union law. (33) At its 48th annual meeting in 2025, the GFCM approved a carry-over of the unused Union quota for turbot in 2024. That measure should be implemented in Union law. The distribution of the fishing opportunities arising from that under-utilisation should be carried out on the basis of the respective contribution of each Member State towards the under-utilisation, without modifying the distribution key established by Regulation (EU) 2024/259 concerning the annual allocation of TAC. (34) The use of fishing opportunities available to Union fishing vessels set out in this Regulation is subject to Council Regulation (EC) No 1224/2009 Council Regulation (EC) No 1224/2009 of 20 November 2009 establishing a Union control system for ensuring compliance with the rules of the common fisheries policy, amending Regulations (EC) No 847/96, (EC) No 2371/2002, (EC) No 811/2004, (EC) No 768/2005, (EC) No 2115/2005, (EC) No 2166/2005, (EC) No 388/2006, (EC) No 509/2007, (EC) No 676/2007, (EC) No 1098/2007, (EC) No 1300/2008, (EC) No 1342/2008 and repealing Regulations (EEC) No 2847/93, (EC) No 1627/94 and (EC) No 1966/2006 (OJ L 343, 22.12.2009, p. 1, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2009/1224/oj).

, and in particular to Articles 33 and 34 thereof concerning the recording of catches and fishing efforts and the notification of data on the exhaustion of fishing opportunities. It is therefore necessary to specify the codes to be used by Member States when sending data relating to landings of stocks subject to this Regulation to the Commission. (35) In order to avoid the interruption of fishing activities and to ensure the livelihood of Union fishers, this Regulation should apply from 1 January 2026. For reasons of urgency, this Regulation should enter into force on the day following that of its publication, HAS ADOPTED THIS REGULATION: TITLE I GENERAL PROVISIONS

Article 1

Scope

1. This Regulation applies to Union fishing vessels operating in the Mediterranean and Black Seas and exploiting the following fish stocks: (a) European eel (Anguilla anguilla), red coral (Corallium rubrum) and common dolphinfish (Coryphaena hippurus) in the Mediterranean Sea; (b) blue and red shrimp (Aristeus antennatus), deep-water rose shrimp (Parapenaeus longirostris), giant red shrimp (Aristaeomorpha foliacea), European hake (Merluccius merluccius), Norway lobster (Nephrops norvegicus) and red mullet (Mullus barbatus) in the western Mediterranean Sea; (c) anchovy (Engraulis encrasicolus) and sardine (Sardina pilchardus) in the Adriatic Sea; (d) European hake (Merluccius merluccius), Norway lobster (Nephrops norvegicus), common sole (Solea solea), deep-water rose shrimp (Parapenaeus longirostris) and red mullet (Mullus barbatus) in the Adriatic Sea; (e) European hake (Merluccius merluccius) and deep-water rose shrimp (Parapenaeus longirostris) in the Strait of Sicily; (f) giant red shrimp (Aristaeomorpha foliacea) and blue and red shrimp (Aristeus antennatus) in the Strait of Sicily, in the Ionian Sea and in the Levant Sea; (g) blackspot seabream (Pagellus bogaraveo) in the Alboran Sea; (h) sprat (Sprattus sprattus) and turbot (Scophthalmus maximus) in the Black Sea.
2. This Regulation also applies to other Union fishing activities, including recreational fisheries, where such fishing activities are expressly referred to in the relevant provisions.

Article 2

Definitions For the purposes of this Regulation, the definitions laid down in Article 4(1) of Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013 apply. In addition, the following definitions apply: (a) international waters means waters falling outside the sovereignty or jurisdiction of any State; (b) recreational fisheries means non-commercial fishing activities exploiting marine living aquatic resources for recreation, tourism or sport; (c) total allowable catch (TAC) means: (i) in fisheries subject to the exemption of the landing obligation as laid down in Article 15(4) to (7) of Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013, the quantity of fish that can be landed from each stock each year; (ii) in all other fisheries, the quantity of fish that can be caught from each stock over the period of a year; (d) quota means a proportion of the TAC allocated to the Union or a Member State;

(e) Union autonomous quota means a catch limit autonomously allocated to Union fishing vessels in the absence of an agreed TAC; (f) analytical quota means a Union autonomous quota for which an analytical assessment is available; (g) analytical assessment means a quantitative evaluation of trends in a given stock, based on data about the stock’s biology and exploitation, which scientific review has indicated to be of sufficient quality to provide scientific advice on options for future catches; (h) fish aggregating device (FAD) means any anchored equipment floating on the sea surface with the objective of attracting fish.

Article 3

Fishing zones For the purposes of this Regulation, the following fishing zone definitions apply: (a) GFCM geographical subareas (GFCM GSAs) means the areas set out in Annex I to Regulation (EU) 2023/2124 of the European Parliament and of the Council Regulation (EU) 2023/2124 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 4 October 2023 on certain provisions for fishing in the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean (GFCM) Agreement area (OJ L, 2023/2124, 12.10.2023, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2023/2124/oj). ; (b) Mediterranean Sea means the waters in GFCM geographical subareas 1 to 27, as set out in Annex I to Regulation (EU) 2023/2124; (c) western Mediterranean Sea means the waters in GFCM geographical subareas 1, 2, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11, as set out in Annex I to Regulation (EU) 2023/2124; (d) Adriatic Sea means the waters in GFCM geographical subareas 17 and 18, as set out in Annex I to Regulation (EU) 2023/2124; (e) Strait of Sicily means the waters in GFCM geographical subareas 12, 13, 14, 15 and 16, as set out in Annex I to Regulation (EU) 2023/2124; (f) Ionian Sea means the waters in GFCM geographical subareas 19, 20 and 21, as set out in Annex I to Regulation (EU) 2023/2124; (g) Levant Sea means the waters in GFCM geographical subareas 24, 25, 26 and 27, as set out in Annex I to Regulation (EU) 2023/2124; (h) Alboran Sea means the waters in GFCM geographical subareas 1, 2 and 3, as set out in Annex I to Regulation (EU) 2023/2124; (i) Black Sea means the waters in GFCM geographical subarea 29, as set out in Annex I to Regulation (EU) 2023/2124. TITLE II FISHING OPPORTUNITIES FOR UNION FISHING VESSELS Chapter I Mediterranean Sea

Article 4

European eel

1. This Article applies to the GFCM geographical subareas 1 to 27, to brackish waters and to freshwaters. Brackish waters include estuaries, coastal lagoons and transitional waters.
2. It shall be prohibited to engage in commercial fishing activities for European eel (Anguilla anguilla) of an overall length of more than 12 cm, either as a targeted species or as incidental by-catch, for a period of at least six months in 2026. To that effect, each Member State concerned shall determine one or more closure periods subject to the following: (a) where appropriate, the closure period or periods may differ within one Member State from one fishing area to another in order to take account of the geographical and temporal migration pattern of European eel at its different life stages;

(b) the closure period or periods shall last either at least six consecutive months, or a total of six months in accordance with the conditions set out in paragraph 3; and (c) the closure period or periods shall be consistent with the conservation objectives set out in Council Regulation (EC) No 1100/2007 Council Regulation (EC) No 1100/2007 of 18 September 2007 establishing measures for the recovery of the stock of European eel (OJ L 248, 22.9.2007, p. 17, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2007/1100/oj). , with national management plans in place and with the temporal migration patterns of European eel at the respective life stage in the Member State concerned. 3. The closure period shall be from 1 January to 31 March 2026, and an additional closure period of three months shall be established by each Member State concerned to take place between 1 April and 30 November 2026. 4. Commercial fishing activities for European eel of an overall length of less than 12 cm shall be authorised annually for a period of two months, and those fishing activities shall be monitored by a designated scientific institution which shall supervise data collection and analyses. 5. The maximum number of fishing authorisations and the maximum number of passive gears authorised to target European eel of an overall length of less than 12 cm for commercial purposes shall not exceed the levels set out in Annex I. 6. Recreational fisheries of European eel at all life stages shall be prohibited. 7. Each Member State concerned shall inform the Commission of: (a) the closure period or closure periods that it has determined in accordance with paragraphs 2 and 3 by 1 March 2026; (b) the national measures relating to the closure period or closure periods that it has determined in accordance with paragraphs 2 and 3, within two weeks of their adoption; and (c) the period authorised to fish for European eel of an overall length of less than 12 cm in accordance with paragraph 4, by 1 March 2026.

Article 5

Red coral

1. This Article applies to all activities by Union fishing vessels harvesting red coral (Corallium rubrum) in the Mediterranean Sea.
2. For targeted fisheries, the maximum number of fishing authorisations and the maximum quantities of red coral stocks harvested by Union fishing vessels and Union harvesting activities shall not exceed the levels set out in Annex II.

Article 6

Common dolphinfish

1. This Article applies to all commercial pelagic fishing activities by Union fishing vessels targeting common dolphinfish (Coryphaena hippurus) by using FADs in the Mediterranean Sea. It also applies to recreational fisheries of common dolphinfish in the Mediterranean Sea.
2. The maximum fleet capacity, expressed in number of vessels, kW and gross tonnage (GT), of Union fishing vessels authorised to fish for common dolphinfish is set out in Annex III.
3. The maximum number of FADs per vessel authorised to fish for common dolphinfish is set out in Annex III.
4. The maximum level of catches of common dolphinfish shall not exceed the levels set out in Annex III.

1. Recreational fisheries of common dolphinfish shall be allowed from 15 August to 31 December and the maximum number of catches shall be limited to 10 kg or five fish of any size per person per day. Chapter II Western Mediterranean Sea

Article 7

Demersal stocks

1. This Article applies to all fishing activities by Union fishing vessels and other Union fishing activities catching demersal stocks referred to in Article 1(2) of Regulation (EU) 2019/1022 in the western Mediterranean Sea.
2. The maximum allowable fishing effort for trawlers and longliners is set out in Annex IV to this Regulation. Member States shall manage the maximum allowable fishing effort in accordance with Article 9 of Regulation (EU) 2019/1022 and Articles 26 to 34 of Regulation (EC) No 1224/2009.
3. The maximum catch limits for deep-water shrimp in the Alboran Sea, Balearic Islands, Northern Spain and Gulf of Lion are set out in Annex IV.
4. The maximum catch limits for deep-water shrimp in Corsica Island, Ligurian Sea, Tyrrhenian Sea and Sardinia Island are set out in Annex IV.
5. The allocation of fishing opportunities among Member States as set out in Annex IV shall be without prejudice to: (a) exchanges made pursuant to Article 16(8) of Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013; (b) deductions and reallocations made pursuant to Article 37 of Regulation (EC) No 1224/2009; (c) additional landings allowed under Article 3 of Council Regulation (EC) No 847/96 Council Regulation (EC) No 847/96 of 6 May 1996 introducing additional conditions for year-to-year management of TACs and quotas (OJ L 115, 9.5.1996, p. 3, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/1996/847/oj). or under Article 15(9) of Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013; (d) quantities withheld in accordance with Article 4 of Regulation (EC) No 847/96 or transferred under Article 15(9) of Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013; (e) deductions made pursuant to Articles 105, 106 and 107 of Regulation (EC) No 1224/2009.

Article 8

Compensation mechanism

1. For the fleet segment concerned, a Member State may adopt national legislation on a compensation mechanism in order to grant in 2026 to eligible vessels flying its flag an additional allocation of fishing days as provided for in paragraph 2 and calculated in accordance with paragraphs 7 and 8, provided that the vessel receiving the additional allocation fulfils one or more of the following conditions set at national level: (a) the vessel uses a trawl net with a square mesh codend of at least 45 mm when fishing in the continental shelf and upper slope; (b) the vessel uses a trawl net with a square mesh codend of at least 50 mm when fishing in the continental shelf and upper slope and in deep-waters; (c) the vessel’s activity is subject to a closure period prohibiting fishing activities for trawlers at depths between 100 m and 500 m for at least six consecutive weeks between February and September; (d) the vessel’s activity is subject to a closure period prohibiting fishing activities for trawlers in GFCM GSAs 8, 9, 10 and 11 for at least four consecutive weeks between March and October;

(e) the vessel’s activity is subject to a closure period prohibiting fishing activities for trawlers in GFCM GSAs 1, 2, 5, 6 and 7 for at least four consecutive weeks between March and October; (f) at least 5 % of the vessel’s fishing grounds at depths between 100 m and 500 m fall within an area that is subject to a 12-month closure period prohibiting fishing activities; (g) the vessel’s fishing grounds fall within a temporary closure area established in order to reduce by at least 20 % catches of spawners of European hake; (h) the vessel’s fishing grounds fall within a temporary closure area established in order to reduce by at least 25 % catches of juvenile fish of all demersal species or by at least 20 % catches of spawners of all demersal species; (i) the vessel’s fishing grounds are subject to a permanent closure for fishing activity with trawlers fishing for blue and red shrimp and giant red shrimp in deep-waters at a depth below 600 m; (j) the vessel’s fishing grounds are subject to a permanent closure for fishing activity with trawlers fishing in deep-waters at a depth below 800 m; (k) the vessel uses a trawl with flying, mid-waters doors, low-contact otter boards or other doors which reduce the contact of the doors and the gear with the seabed, to preserve the essential fish habitats of the demersal species; (l) the vessel uses highly selective gear the technical specifications of which results in, according to a study by STECF, a reduction of at least 25 % of catches of juvenile fish of all demersal species or at least 20 % of spawners of all demersal species compared to 2020, such as a sorting grid with 20 mm spacing; (m) at least 10 % of the vessel’s fishing grounds at depths between 300 m and 600 m fall within an area that is subject to a permanent closure for fishing activity with trawlers fishing for Norway lobster in GFCM GSAs 6, 9 or 11; (n) the Member State concerned implements a permanent cessation of 5 % to 10 % of the fleet concerned or implements a permanent cessation of more than 10 % of the fleet concerned. 2. The allocation of additional fishing days referred to in paragraph 1 shall be calculated as follows: (a) if a vessel fulfils the condition set out in paragraph 1, point (a), a Member State may increase the allocation of fishing days by 9,3 %, unless: the vessel concerned is implementing that measure before 1 May 2026, in which case the allocation of fishing days may be increased by 18,6 %, the vessels that are implementing that measure before 1 May 2026 represent in total more than 40 % of the fleet of the Member State concerned in the EMU, in which case the allocation of fishing days may be increased by 25 %, the measure applies to all vessels of the Member State concerned in the EMU before 1 May 2026, in which case the allocation of fishing days may be increased by 30 %, or the vessel concerned has already implemented that measure in 2025 and continues to implement it in 2026 without interruption, in which case the allocation of fishing days for that vessel may be increased by 37 %; the percentages referred to in this point may not be cumulated;

(b) if a vessel fulfils the condition set out in paragraph 1, point (b), a Member State may increase the allocation of fishing days by 15,4 %, unless: the vessel concerned is implementing that measure before 1 May 2026, in which case the allocation of fishing days may be increased by 30,8 %, vessels that are implementing that measure before 1 May 2026 represent in total more than 40 % of the fleet of the Member State concerned in the EMU, in which case the allocation of fishing days may be increased by 40 %, the measure applies to all vessels of the Member State concerned in the EMU before 1 May 2026, in which case the allocation of fishing days may be increased by 50 %, or the vessel concerned has already implemented that measure in 2025 and continues to implement it in 2026 without interruption, in which case the allocation of fishing days for that vessel may be increased by 55 %; the percentages referred to in this point may not be cumulated; (c) if the vessel’s activity is subject to the condition set out in paragraph 1, point (c), a Member State may increase the allocation of fishing days by 10 %, unless the vessel concerned has already been subject to that condition in 2025 and continues to be subject to it in 2026, in which case the allocation of fishing days for that vessel may be increased by 12 %; the percentages referred to in this point may not be cumulated; (d) if the vessel’s activity is subject to the condition set out in paragraph 1, point (d), a Member State may increase the allocation of fishing days by 15 %, unless the vessel concerned has already been subject to that condition in 2025 and continues to be subject to it in 2026, in which case the allocation of fishing days for that vessel may be increased by 18 %; if the closure is extended continuously for additional weeks, the allocation of fishing days of that vessel may be increased by 2 % for each additional week; the percentages referred to in this point may not be cumulated; (e) if the vessel’s activity is subject to the condition set out in paragraph 1, point (e), a Member State may increase the allocation of fishing days by 15 %, unless the vessel concerned has already been subject to that condition in 2025 and continues to be subject to it in 2026, in which case the allocation of fishing days for that vessel may be increased by 18 %; if the closure is extended continuously for additional weeks, the allocation of fishing days of that vessel may be increased by 2 % for each additional week; the percentages referred to in this point may not be cumulated; (f) if the vessel’s is subject to the condition set out in paragraph 1, point (f), a Member State may increase the allocation of fishing days by 4 %; (g) if the vessel’s activity is subject to the condition set out in paragraph 1, point (g), a Member State may increase the allocation of fishing days by 13 %, unless the vessel concerned has already been subject to that measure in 2025 and continues to be subject to it in 2026, in which case the allocation of fishing days for that vessel may be increased by 15 %; the percentages referred to in this point may not be cumulated;

(h) if the vessel’s activity is subject to the condition set out in paragraph 1, point (h), a Member State may increase the allocation of fishing days by 3 %; (i) if the vessel’s activity is subject to the condition set out in paragraph 1, point (i), a Member State may increase the allocation of fishing days by 6 %; (j) if the vessel’s activity is subject to the condition set out in paragraph 1, point (j), a Member State may increase the allocation of fishing days by 3 %, which may be increased to 5 % if that measure was already implemented in 2025; (k) if a vessel fulfils the condition set out in paragraph 1, point (k), a Member State may increase the allocation of fishing days by 3 %; (l) if a vessel fulfils the condition set out in paragraph 1, point (l), a Member State may increase the allocation of fishing days by 3 %; (m) if the vessel’s activity is subject to the condition set out in paragraph 1, point (m), a Member State may increase the allocation of fishing days by 8 %; (n) if the vessel’s activity is subject to the condition set out in paragraph 1, point (n), a Member State may increase the allocation of fishing days by 15 %, unless a permanent cessation applies to more than 10 % of the fleet concerned, in which case the Member State may increase the allocation of fishing days by 30 %. 3. The Member State concerned shall submit to the Commission the draft national legislation relating to the selected conditions for the compensation mechanism referred to in paragraph 1 at least one month before its adoption. 4. The Member State concerned shall submit to the Commission the following information: (a) the list of vessels flying its flag that fulfil any of the conditions for compensation referred to in paragraphs 1 and 2; and (b) the related number of additional fishing days. 5. The notification of the additional allocation of fishing days shall be submitted to the Commission by 31 July 2026. If the Member State concerned submits to the Commission its notification of additional allocation of fishing days after 31 July 2026, the percentages specified in paragraph 2 shall be halved. 6. The Member State concerned shall separately submit every month to the Commission the effort deployed to be counted against the additional allocation referred to in paragraph 2, using the specific reporting codes designated for that purpose. 7. The Member State concerned shall calculate the additional allocation of fishing days on the basis of the baseline corresponding to the maximum allowable fishing effort fixed by Regulation (EU) 2024/259, proportionally to the relevant number of eligible vessels concerned by the conditions listed in paragraphs 1 and 2. 8. The Member State concerned shall not allocate additional fishing days that would result in the maximum allowable fishing effort set for the relevant fishing effort group in Regulation (EU) 2024/259, that is, Annex III and Article 8, being exceeded. 9. The Member State concerned shall enhance the monitoring, control and surveillance of fishing vessels referred to in this Article in order to ensure compliance with the eligibility conditions laid down in paragraph 1 and corresponding national measures.

1. The Member State concerned may transfer additional days allocated in accordance with this Article between vessels implementing the same conditions, provided that it applies a conversion factor which is supported by the best available scientific advice.
2. If the vessel concerned fulfils the conditions set out in paragraph 1, points (a) and (b), the number of additional fishing days allocated to that vessel pursuant to paragraph 2, points (a) and (b), may be cumulated.

Article 9

Remedial measures for European hake in GFCM GSAs 1, 2, 5, 6 and 7 and Norway lobster in GFCM GSA 6

1. This Article applies to fishing activities by Union vessels catching European hake (Merluccius merluccius) in GFCM GSAs 1, 2, 5, 6 and 7 and Norway lobster (Nephrops norvegicus) in GFCM GSA 6.
2. The maximum catch limit of European hake for Union fishing vessels using gillnets and trammel nets (GNS, GTR, GND) in Union waters of the Western Mediterranean Sea is set out in Annex IV.
3. Member States shall adopt a minimum conservation reference size for Norway lobster of at least 25 mm carapace length (CL).
4. This Article shall not apply to fishing operations conducted for the exclusive purpose of scientific investigations, provided that those investigations are carried out in compliance with Article 25 of Regulation (EU) 2019/1241 of the European Parliament and of the Council Regulation (EU) 2019/1241 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 June 2019 on the conservation of fisheries resources and the protection of marine ecosystems through technical measures, amending Council Regulations (EC) No 1967/2006, (EC) No 1224/2009 and Regulations (EU) No 1380/2013, (EU) 2016/1139, (EU) 2018/973, (EU) 2019/472 and (EU) 2019/1022 of the European Parliament and of the Council, and repealing Council Regulations (EC) No 894/97, (EC) No 850/98, (EC) No 2549/2000, (EC) No 254/2002, (EC) No 812/2004 and (EC) No 2187/2005 (OJ L 198, 25.7.2019, p. 105, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2019/1241/oj). .

Article 10

Remedial measures for European hake in GFCM GSAs 8, 9, 10 and 11 and Norway lobster in GFCM GSA 9 and 11

1. This Article applies to fishing activities by Union vessels catching European hake (Merluccius merluccius) in GFCM GSAs 8, 9, 10 and 11 and Norway lobster (Nephrops norvegicus) in GFCM GSAs 9 and 11.
2. The maximum catch limit of European hake for Union fishing vessels using gillnets and trammel nets (GNS, GTR, GND) in Union waters of the Western Mediterranean Sea is set out in Annex IV.
3. It shall be prohibited to use otter-twin gear for trawlers fishing in GFCM GSAs 8, 9, 10 and 11.
4. Member States shall adopt a minimum conservation reference size for Norway lobster of at least 25 mm carapace length (CL).
5. This Article shall not apply to fishing operations conducted for the exclusive purpose of scientific investigations, provided that those investigations are carried out in compliance with Article 25 of Regulation (EU) 2019/1241.

Article 11

Data recording and transmission

1. Member States shall record and transmit the fishing effort data to the Commission in accordance with Articles 33 and 34 of Regulation (EC) No 1224/2009 and Articles 146c, 146d and 146e of Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 404/2011 Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 404/2011 of 8 April 2011 laying down detailed rules for the implementation of Council Regulation (EC) No 1224/2009 establishing a Community control system for ensuring compliance with the rules of the Common Fisheries Policy (OJ L 112 30.4.2011, p. 1, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg_impl/2011/404/oj). .
2. When Member States submit to the Commission data relating to fishing effort pursuant to Articles 33 and 34 of Regulation (EC) No 1224/2009, they shall use the fishing effort group codes set out in Annex IV to this Regulation. Chapter III Adriatic Sea

Article 12

Small pelagic stocks

1. This Article applies to all fishing activities by Union fishing vessels catching sardine (Sardina pilchardus) and anchovy (Engraulis encrasicolus) in the Adriatic Sea.
2. The maximum level of catches of sardine and anchovy shall not exceed the levels set out in Annex V.
3. The maximum fleet capacity, expressed in number of vessels, kW and GT, of Union fishing vessels authorised to fish small pelagic stocks is set out in Annex V.
4. Articles 3 and 4 of Regulation (EC) No 847/96 shall not apply where a Member State uses the year-to-year flexibility provided for in Article 15(9) of Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013.

Article 13

Demersal stocks

1. This Article applies to all fishing activities by Union fishing vessels catching European hake (Merluccius merluccius), Norway lobster (Nephrops norvegicus), common sole (Solea solea), deep-water rose shrimp (Parapenaeus longirostris) and red mullet (Mullus barbatus) in the Adriatic Sea.
2. The maximum allowable fishing effort for those demersal stocks and the maximum fleet capacity within the scope of this Article is set out in Annex V.
3. Member States shall manage the maximum allowable effort in accordance with Articles 26 to 35 of Regulation (EC) No 1224/2009.

Article 14

Data transmission When, pursuant to Articles 33 and 34 of Regulation (EC) No 1224/2009, Member States submit data relating to landings and fishing effort to the Commission, they shall use the stock codes and fishing effort group codes set out in Annex V to this Regulation. Chapter IV Strait of Sicily

Article 15

European hake and deep-water rose shrimp

1. This Article applies to all activities by Union fishing vessels and other Union fishing activities catching European hake (Merluccius merluccius) and deep-water rose shrimp (Parapenaeus longirostris) in the Strait of Sicily.
2. The maximum fleet capacity, expressed in number of vessels, kW and GT, of bottom trawl vessels authorised to fish for demersal stocks within the scope of this Article is set out in Annex VI.
3. The maximum allowable fishing effort for European hake (expressed in number of fishing days), for bottom otter-trawl vessels (OTB) targeting European hake is set out in Annex VI.

1. The maximum level of catches of deep-water rose shrimp shall not exceed the levels set out in Annex VI.
2. Member States shall manage the maximum allowable fishing effort in accordance with Articles 26 to 35 of Regulation (EC) No 1224/2009.

Article 16

Deep-water shrimps

1. This Article applies to all fishing activities by Union fishing vessels and other Union fishing activities catching giant red shrimp (Aristaeomorpha foliacea) and blue and red shrimp (Aristeus antennatus) in the Strait of Sicily.
2. The maximum fleet capacity, expressed in number of vessels, kW and GT, of bottom trawl vessels authorised to fish the demersal stocks within the scope of this Article is set out in Annex VI.
3. The maximum level of catches shall not exceed the levels set out in Annex VI.

Article 17

Data transmission When, pursuant to Articles 33 and 34 of Regulation (EC) No 1224/2009, Member States submit data relating to landings of quantities of stocks caught to the Commission, they shall use the stock codes set out in Annex VI to this Regulation. Chapter V Ionian Sea and Levant Sea

Article 18

Deep-water shrimps

1. This Article applies to all fishing activities by Union fishing vessels and other Union fishing activities catching giant red shrimp (Aristaeomorpha foliacea) and blue and red shrimp (Aristeus antennatus) in the Ionian Sea and in the Levant Sea.
2. The maximum fleet capacity, expressed in number of vessels, kW and GT, of bottom trawl vessels authorised to fish for demersal stocks within the scope of this Article is set out in Annex VII.
3. The maximum level of catches shall not exceed the levels set out in Annex VII. Chapter VI Alboran Sea

Article 19

Blackspot seabream

1. This Article applies to commercial and recreational fishing activities by Union fishing vessels catching blackspot seabream (Pagellus bogaraveo) with longlines and handlines in the Alboran Sea.
2. The maximum level of catches shall not exceed the levels set out in Annex VIII.
3. The maximum number of longliners and handliners authorised to fish for blackspot seabream is set out in Annex VIII.
4. A temporal closure shall be established with a view to protecting the key stock during spawning for periods of no less than 60 continuous days. Such closure shall last for at least two months and shall take place during the period from January to March 2026 and shall cover the key areas of distribution of blackspot seabream in the Alboran Sea.
5. Recreational fisheries for blackspot seabream shall be prohibited. Chapter VII Black Sea

Article 20

Sprat

1. This Article applies to all activities by Union fishing vessels and other Union fishing activities catching sprat (Sprattus sprattus) in the Black Sea.
2. The Union autonomous quota for sprat is set out in Annex IX.
3. Articles 3 and 4 of Regulation (EC) No 847/96 shall not apply where a Member State uses the year-to-year flexibility provided for in Article 15(9) of Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013.

Article 21

Turbot

1. This Article applies to all activities by Union fishing vessels and other Union fishing activities catching turbot (Scophthalmus maximus) in the Black Sea.

1. The TAC for turbot applicable in Union waters in the Black Sea, the allocation of such TAC among Member States and the conditions functionally linked thereto, where appropriate, are set out in Annex IX.
2. Articles 3 and 4 of Regulation (EC) No 847/96 shall not apply where a Member State uses the year-to-year flexibility provided for in Article 15(9) of Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013.

Article 22

Management of fishing effort for turbot Union fishing vessels authorised to fish for turbot within the scope of Article 21, irrespective of the vessels’ overall length, shall not exceed 180 fishing days per year.

Article 23

Closure period for turbot It shall be prohibited for Union fishing vessels to carry out any fishing activity for turbot, including transhipment, retaining on board, landing and first sale of turbot in Union waters in the Black Sea from 15 April to 15 June 2026.

Article 24

Special provisions on allocations of fishing opportunities in the Black Sea The allocation of fishing opportunities among Member States as set out in Annex IX to this Regulation shall be without prejudice to: (a) exchanges made pursuant to Article 16(8) of Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013; (b) deductions and reallocations made pursuant to Article 37 of Regulation (EC) No 1224/2009; (c) deductions made pursuant to Articles 105 and 107 of Regulation (EC) No 1224/2009.

Article 25

Data transmission When, pursuant to Articles 33 and 34 of Regulation (EC) No 1224/2009, Member States submit to the Commission data relating to landings of quantities of stocks of sprat and turbot caught in Union waters in the Black Sea, they shall use the stock codes set out in Annex IX to this Regulation. TITLE III FINAL PROVISIONS

Article 26

Entry into force and application This Regulation shall enter into force on the day following that of its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union. It shall apply from 1 January 2026 to 31 December 2026. This Regulation shall be binding in its entirety and directly applicable in all Member States. Done at Brussels, 26 January 2026. For the Council The President M. Panayiotou

Annex

ANNEX I FISHING OPPORTUNITIES FOR UNION COMMERCIAL FISHING ACTIVITIES FOR GLASS EELS IN THE CONTEXT OF THE GFCM MULTIANNUAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR EUROPEAN EEL IN THE MEDITERRANEAN SEA The tables in this Annex set out the maximum allowable number of fishing authorisations and the maximum numbers for fishing gear authorised for commercial fishing activities targeting European eel of an overall length of less than 12 cm. For the purposes of this Annex, the following comparative table of Latin names and common names of fish stocks is provided: Scientific nameAlpha-3 codeCommon nameAnguilla anguillaELEEuropean eel Table 1 Maximum number of fishing authorisations Member States European eel ELE Spain153 Table 2 Maximum number of fishing gears Member StatesFishing gearGear codeUnitsSpainPots and trapsEPO249

Annex

ANNEX II FISHING OPPORTUNITIES FOR UNION FISHING VESSELS IN THE CONTEXT OF THE GFCM MULTIANNUAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR RED CORAL IN THE MEDITERRANEAN SEA

The tables in this Annex set out the maximum allowable number of fishing authorisations and the maximum level of harvested quantities of red coral in the Mediterranean Sea. References to fishing zones are references to the GFCM GSAs. For the purposes of this Annex, the following comparative table of Latin names and common names of fish stocks is provided: Scientific nameAlpha-3 codeCommon nameCorallium rubrumCOLRed coral Table 1 Maximum number of fishing authorisations Representing number of vessels or divers, or both, or a pair of one diver with one vessel, authorised to harvest red coral. In accordance with the current temporal ban for red coral fisheries established in Spanish waters and in Croatian waters, pending possible changes. Member States Red coral COL Greece12Spain0France32Croatia0Italy40 Table 2 Maximum level of harvested quantities expressed in kilograms live weight In accordance with the current temporal ban for red coral fisheries established in Spanish waters and in Croatian waters, pending possible changes. Species: Red coral Corallium rubrum Zone: Union waters in the Mediterranean Sea – GSAs 1-27 COL/GF1-27 Greece1844Spain0France1400Croatia0Italy1378Union4622TACNot relevant

Annex

ANNEX III FISHING OPPORTUNITIES FOR UNION FISHING VESSELS IN THE CONTEXT OF THE MANAGEMENT OF COMMON DOLPHINFISH IN THE MEDITERRANEAN SEA The tables in this Annex set out the maximum number, kW and GT of Union fishing vessels authorised to fish for common dolphinfish by using FADs in the Mediterranean Sea and the maximum level of catches. References to fishing zones are references to GFCM GSAs. For the purposes of this Annex, the following comparative table of Latin names and common names of fish stocks is provided: Scientific nameAlpha-3 codeCommon nameCoryphaena hippurusDOLCommon dolphinfish Table 1 Maximum fleet capacity of vessels targeting common dolphinfish by using FADs in the Mediterranean Sea (GSAs 1-27) Member StateNumber of vesselskWGTItaly261210611986Malta130166621296,28Spain452105,73153,34 Table 2 Maximum number of FADs per vessel authorised to target common dolphinfish in the Mediterranean Sea (GSAs 1-27), as well as a daily bag limit for anglers targeting common dolphinfish Member StateNumber of FADs per vesselItaly100Malta200Spain50Recreational fisheriesAngling – daily bag limit = 10 kg or 5 fish/person/day Table 3 Maximum level of catches in tonnes live weight caught in the Mediterranean Sea (GSAs 1-27) Species: Common dolphinfish Coryphaena hippurus Zone: Union and International waters of GSAs 1-27 (DOL/MED) Italy1174Maximum level of catchesMalta517Spain127Union1818TACNot relevant

Annex

ANNEX IV FISHING OPPORTUNITIES FOR UNION FISHING VESSELS IN THE CONTEXT OF THE MANAGEMENT OF DEMERSAL STOCKS IN THE WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN SEA The tables in this Annex set out the maximum allowable fishing effort (in fishing days) by stock groups, as defined in Article 2, point (13), of Regulation (EU) No 2019/1022, maximum catch limits and overall length of vessels for all types of trawls

TBB, OTB, PTB, TBN, TBS, TB, OTM, PTM, TMS, TM, OTT, OT, PT, TX, OTP and TSP. and demersal longliners fishing for demersal stocks in the western Mediterranean Sea. All fishing opportunities set out in this Annex shall be subject to the rules set out in Article 7 of Regulation (EU) 2019/1022 and Articles 26 to 35 of Regulation (EC) 1224/2009. References to fishing zones are references to GFCM GSAs. For the purposes of this Annex, the following comparative table of Latin names and common names of fish stocks is provided: Scientific nameAlpha-3 codeCommon nameAristaeomorpha foliaceaARSGiant red shrimpAristeus antennatusARABlue and red shrimpMerluccius merlucciusHKEEuropean hakeMullus barbatusMUTRed mulletNephrops norvegicusNEPNorway lobsterParapenaeus longirostrisDPSDeep-water rose shrimp

1. Maximum allowable fishing effort (in fishing days) (a) Number of fishing days for trawlers in the Alboran Sea, Balearic Islands, Northern Spain and Gulf of Lion (GSAs 1, 2, 5, 6 and 7) Stock groupOverall length of vesselsSpainFranceItalyFishing effort group codeAdditional allocation codeRed mullet in GSAs 1, 5, 6 and 7; European hake in GSAs 1, 5, 6 and 7; deep-water rose shrimp in GSAs 1, 5 and 6; Norway lobster in GSAs 5 and 6< 12 m31700EFF1/MED1_TR1EFF1/MED1_TR1_AA≥ 12 m and < 18 m340000EFF1/MED1_TR2EFF1/MED1_TR2_AA≥ 18 m and < 24 m637920230EFF1/MED1_TR3EFF1/MED1_TR3_AA≥ 24 m224724620EFF1/MED1_TR4EFF1/MED1_TR4_AABlue and red shrimp in GSAs 1, 2, 5, 6 and 7< 12 m000EFF2/MED1_TR1EFF2/MED1_TR1_AA≥ 12 m and < 18 m16000EFF2/MED1_TR2EFF2/MED1_TR2_AA≥ 18 m and < 24 m161500EFF2/MED1_TR3EFF2/MED1_TR3_AA≥ 24 m129700EFF2/MED1_TR4EFF2/MED1_TR4_AA (b) Number of fishing days for trawlers in Corsica Island, Ligurian Sea, Tyrrhenian Sea and Sardinia Island (GSAs 8, 9, 10 and 11) Stock groupOverall length of vesselsSpainFranceItalyFishing effort group codeAdditional allocation codeRed mullet in GSAs 8, 9, 10 and 11; European hake in GSAs 8, 9, 10 and 11; deep-water rose shrimp in GSAs 9, 10 and 11; Norway lobster in GSAs 9 and 10< 12 m01381202EFF1/MED2_TR1EFF1/MED2_TR1_AA≥ 12 m and < 18 m055118064EFF1/MED2_TR2EFF1/MED2_TR2_AA≥ 18 m and < 24 m013812148EFF1/MED2_TR3EFF1/MED2_TR3_AA≥ 24 m01381622EFF1/MED2_TR4EFF1/MED2_TR4_AAGiant red shrimp in GSAs 8, 9, 10 and 11< 12 m083199EFF2/MED2_TR1EFF2/MED2_TR1_AA≥ 12 m and < 18 m03331465EFF2/MED2_TR2EFF2/MED2_TR2_AA≥ 18 m and < 24 m0831180EFF2/MED2_TR3EFF2/MED2_TR3_AA≥ 24 m083158EFF2/MED2_TR4EFF2/MED2_TR4_AA (c) Number of fishing days for demersal longliners in Alboran Sea, Balearic Islands, Northern Spain and Gulf of Lion (GSAs 1, 2, 5, 6 and 7) Stock groupOverall length of vesselsSpainFranceItalyFishing effort group codeEuropean hake in GSAs 1, 2, 5, 6 and 7< 12 m943364320EFF1/MED1_LL1≥ 12 m and < 18 m2148930EFF1/MED1_LL2≥ 18 m and < 24 m7400EFF1/MED1_LL3≥ 24 m2900EFF1/MED1_LL4 (d) Number of fishing days for demersal longliners in Corsica Island, Ligurian Sea, Tyrrhenian Sea and Sardinia Island (GSAs 8, 9, 10 and 11) Stock groupOverall length of vesselsSpainFranceItalyFishing effort group codeEuropean hake in GSAs 8, 9, 10 and 11< 12 m0143628873EFF1/MED2_LL1≥ 12 m and < 18 m0444131EFF1/MED2_LL2≥ 18 m and < 24 m0023EFF1/MED2_LL3≥ 24 m000EFF1/MED2_LL4

1. Maximum catch limits for deep-water shrimps (a) Fishing opportunities for blue and red shrimp (Aristeus antennatus) in the Alboran Sea, Balearic Islands, Northern Spain and Gulf of Lion (GSAs 1, 2, 5, 6 and 7), expressed as maximum level of catches in tonnes live weight Species: Blue and red shrimp Aristeus antennatus Zone: GSAs 1, 2, 5, 6 and 7 (ARA/GF1-7) Spain708,3Maximum level of catchesFrance45,9Italy0Union754,2TACNot relevant (b) Fishing opportunities for blue and red shrimp (Aristeus antennatus) and giant red shrimp (Aristaeomorpha foliacea) in Corsica Island, Ligurian Sea, Tyrrhenian Sea and Sardinia Island (GSAs 8, 9, 10 and 11), expressed as maximum level of catches in tonnes live weight Species: Blue and red shrimp Aristeus antennatus Zone: GSAs 8, 9, 10 and 11 (ARA/GF8-11) Spain0 Precautionary catch limit Maximum level of catches France8,5Italy221,9Union230,4TACNot relevant Species: Giant red shrimp Aristaeomorpha foliacea Zone: GSAs 8, 9, 10 and 11 (ARS/GF8-11) Spain0 Analytical catch limits Maximum level of catches France4,9Italy323,4Union328,3TACNot relevant
2. Maximum catch limits for European hake (a) Fishing opportunities for European hake (Merluccius merluccius) caught by static gear (GNS, GND and GTR) in the Alboran Sea, Balearic Islands, Northern Spain and Gulf of Lion (GSAs 1, 2, 5, 6 and 7), expressed as maximum level of catches in tonnes live weight. Species: European hake Merluccius merluccius Zone: GSAs 1, 2, 5, 6 and 7 (HKE/GF1-7) Spain49,1 Analytical catch limit

Article 15(9) of Regulation (EC) No 1380/2013 shall not apply. Maximum level of catches France122,2Italy0Union171,3TACNot relevant (b) Fishing opportunities for European hake (Merluccius merluccius) caught by static gear (GNS, GND and GTR) in Corsica Island, Ligurian Sea, Tyrrhenian Sea and Sardinia Island (GSAs 8, 9, 10 and 11), expressed as maximum level of catches in tonnes live weight Species: European hake Merluccius merluccius Zone: GSAs 8, 9, 10 and 11 (HKE/GF8-11) Spain0 Analytical catch limit

Article 15(9) of Regulation (EC) No 1380/2013 shall not apply. Maximum level of catches France0,2Italy261,5Union261,7TACNot relevant

Annex

ANNEX V FISHING OPPORTUNITIES FOR UNION FISHING VESSELS IN THE ADRIATIC SEA The tables in this Annex set out the fishing opportunities by stock or vessel effort groups and, where appropriate, the conditions functionally linked thereto, including the maximum number of Union fishing vessels authorised to fish small pelagics. All fishing opportunities set out in this Annex shall be subject to the rules set out in Articles 26 to 35 of Regulation (EC) No 1224/2009. References to fishing zones are references to GFCM GSAs. For the purposes of this Annex, the following comparative table of Latin names and common names of fish stocks is provided: Scientific nameAlpha-3 codeCommon nameEngraulis encrasicolusANEAnchovyMerluccius merlucciusHKEEuropean hakeMullus barbatusMUTRed mulletNephrops norvegicusNEPNorway lobsterParapenaeus longirostrisDPSDeep-water rose shrimpSardina pilchardusPILSardineSolea soleaSOLCommon sole

1. Small pelagic stocks – GSAs 17 and 18 (a) Maximum level of catches expressed in tonnes live weight Species Small pelagic species (anchovy and sardine) Zone:Union and International waters of GSAs 17 and 18 Engraulis encrasicolus (ANE/GF1718) Sardina pilchardus (PIL/GF1718) Italy14154,58062,3Croatia9542,532625,7Slovenia111189Union2380840877TACNot relevant (b) Maximum fleet capacity of trawlers and purse seiners actively fishing for small pelagics The provision under paragraph 28 of Recommendation GFCM/44/2021/20 shall not apply to national fleets of less than 10 purse seiners or pelagic trawlers actively fishing for small pelagic stocks, as recorded both in national and GFCM registers in 2014, as in the case of Slovenia. In such case, the capacity of the active fleet may increase by not more than 50 % in number of vessels and in terms of gross tonnage (GT), gross registered tonnage (GRT) and kW. Member StateGearNumber of vesselskWGTCroatiaPS24977145,5218537,72ItalyPTM, OTM and PS1876465514065SloveniaPS4433,738,5
2. Demersal stocks – GSAs 17 and 18 (a) Maximum allowable fishing effort (in fishing days) by types of trawls and fleet segment fishing for demersal stocks in GSAs 17 and 18 (Adriatic Sea). Slovenia shall not exceed the effort limit of 3000 fishing days per year in accordance with paragraph 13 of Recommendation GFCM/43/2019/5. Fishing Days 2026Gear typeGeographical areaStocks concernedOverall length of vesselsEffort group codeItalyCroatiaSloveniaTrawls (OTB)GSAs 17 and 18Red mullet; European hake; deepwater rose shrimp, and Norway lobster< 12mEFF/MED3_OTB _TR125078988 ≥ 12 m and < 24 m EFF/MED3_OTB _TR25634720939≥ 24 mEFF/MED3_OTB _TR349371880Beam trawls (TBB)GSA 17Common sole< 12mEFF/MED3_TBB _TR120000 ≥ 12 m and < 24 m EFF/MED3_TBB _TR2374400≥ 24 mEFF/MED3_TBB _TR3372300 (b) Maximum fleet capacity of bottom trawler and beam trawl vessels authorised for fishing demersal stocks The provisions of paragraphs 9(c) and 28 of Recommendation GFCM/43/2019/5 shall not apply to national fleets operating with trawls (OTB) and fishing for less than 1000 days during the reference period mentioned in paragraph 9(c) of Recommendation GFCM/43/2019/5. The fishing capacity of the active fleet operating with trawls (OTB) shall not increase by more than 50 % with respect to the reference period.

Member StateGearNumber of vesselskWGTCroatiaOTB49579867,9913267,99ItalyOTB and TBB1363260618,3747148SloveniaOTB111813,00168,67

Annex

ANNEX VI FISHING OPPORTUNITIES FOR UNION FISHING VESSELS IN THE STRAIT OF SICILY The tables in this Annex set out the fishing opportunities by stock or vessels’ effort groups and, where appropriate, the conditions functionally linked thereto, including the maximum number of Union fishing vessels authorised to fish demersal species and deep-water shrimps. All fishing opportunities set out in this Annex shall be subject to the rules set out in Articles 26 to 35 of Regulation (EC) No 1224/2009. References to fishing zones are references to GFCM GSAs. For the purposes of this Annex, the following comparative table of Latin names and common names of fish stocks is provided: Scientific nameAlpha-3 codeCommon nameMerluccius merlucciusHKEEuropean hakeParapenaeus longirostrisDPSDeep-water rose shrimpAristaeomorpha foliaceaARSGiant red shrimpAristeus antennatusARABlue and red shrimp

1. Demersal stocks (a) Maximum fleet capacity, expressed in number of vessels, kW and GT, of bottom trawl vessels authorised to fish demersal stocks in the Strait of Sicily (GSAs 12, 13, 14, 15 and 16) Member StateGearNumber of vesselskWGTCyprusOTB1265105SpainOTB1100118ItalyOTB59414417536856MaltaOTB1555622007 (b) Maximum level of fishing effort (in number of fishing days), for bottom otter-trawl vessels (OTB) targeting European hake (Merluccius merluccius) in the Strait of Sicily (GSAs 12, 13, 14, 15 and 16) Member StateGearVessel lengthEffort group codeFishing days 2026CyprusOTBT-12EFF4/MED4_OTB451ItalyOTBT-07EFF4/MED4_OTB190ItalyOTBT-10EFF4/MED4_OTB2188ItalyOTBT-11EFF4/MED4_OTB319366ItalyOTBT-12EFF4/MED4_OTB43657MaltaOTBT-11EFF4/MED4_OTB3338MaltaOTBT-12EFF4/MED4_OTB4165 (c) Maximum level of catches of deep-water rose shrimp (Parapenaeus longirostris) in the Strait of Sicily (GSAs 12, 13, 14, 15 and 16) expressed in tonnes live weight Species: Deep-water rose shrimp Parapenaeus longirostris Zone: GSAs 12, 13, 14, 15 and 16 (DPS/GF12-16) Cyprus1Analytical catch limitItaly2020Malta5Union2026TACNot relevant
2. Deep-water shrimps (a) Maximum fleet capacity, expressed in number of vessels, kW and GT, of bottom trawl vessels authorised to fish deep-water shrimp stocks in the Strait of Sicily (GSAs 12, 13 14, 15 and 16) Member StateGearNumber of vesselskWGTCyprusOTB1265105SpainOTB2440,56218,78ItalyOTB2397623222672MaltaOTB1555622007 (b) Maximum level of catches of giant red shrimp (Aristaeomorpha foliacea) in the Strait of Sicily (GSAs 12, 13, 14, 15 and 16) expressed in tonnes live weight Species Giant red shrimp Aristaeomorpha foliacea Zone:GSAs 12, 13, 14, 15 and 16Spain0,9Analytical catch limitItaly794,4Cyprus0Malta33,7Union829TACNot relevant (c) Maximum level of catches of blue and red shrimp (Aristeus antennatus) in the Strait of Sicily (GSAs 12, 13, 14, 15 and 16) expressed in tonnes live weight Species Blue and red shrimp Aristeus antennatus Zone:

GSAs 12, 13, 14, 15 and 16 (ARA/GF12-16) Spain0,9Precautionary catch limitItaly91,9Cyprus0Malta7,1Union95TACNot relevant

Annex

ANNEX VII FISHING OPPORTUNITIES FOR UNION FISHING VESSELS IN THE IONIAN SEA AND THE LEVANT SEA The tables in this Annex set out the maximum number of Union fishing vessels authorised to fish for demersal stocks in the Ionian Sea and the Levant Sea and the maximum level of catches. References to fishing zones are references to GFCM GSAs. For the purposes of this Annex, the following comparative table of Latin names and common names of fish stocks is provided: Scientific nameAlpha-3 codeCommon nameAristaeomorpha foliaceaARSGiant red shrimpAristeus antennatusARABlue and red shrimp

1. Ionian Sea (a) Maximum fleet capacity, expressed in number of vessels, kW and GT, of bottom trawl vessels authorised to fish deep-water shrimp stocks in the Ionian Sea (GSAs 19, 20 and 21) Member StateGearNumber of vesselskWGTGreeceOTB2406928123101ItalyOTB2917238316853MaltaOTB1555622007 (b) Maximum level of catches of giant red shrimp (Aristaeomorpha foliacea) in the Ionian Sea (GSAs 19, 20 and 21) expressed in tonnes live weight Species Giant red shrimp Aristaeomorpha foliacea Zone: GSAs 19, 20 and 21 (ARS/GF19-21) Greece31,3Analytical catch limitItaly285,7Malta42Union359TACNot relevant (c) Maximum level of catches of blue and red shrimp (Aristeus antennatus) in the Ionian Sea (GSAs 19, 20 and 21) expressed in tonnes live weight Species Blue and red shrimp Aristeus antennatus Zone: GSAs 19, 20 and 21 (ARA/GF19-21) Greece13,8Analytical catch limitItaly228,2Malta0Union242TACNot relevant
2. Levant Sea (a) Maximum fleet capacity, expressed in number of vessels, kW and GT, of bottom trawler vessels authorised to fish deep-water shrimp stocks in the Levant Sea (GSAs 24, 25, 26 and 27) Member StateGearNumber of vesselskWGTCyprusOTB62048618ItalyOTB34153455542 (b) Maximum level of catches of giant red shrimp (Aristaeomorpha foliacea) in the Levant Sea (GSAs 24, 25, 26 and 27) expressed in tonnes live weight Species Giant red shrimp Aristaeomorpha foliacea Zone: GSAs 24, 25, 26 and 27 (ARS/GF24-27) Italy44,3Precautionary catch limitCyprus10,7Union55TACNot relevant (c) Maximum level of catches of blue and red shrimp (Aristeus antennatus) in the Levant Sea (GSAs 24, 25, 26 and 27) expressed in tonnes live weight Species Blue and red shrimp Aristeus antennatus Zone: GSAs 24, 25, 26 and 27 (ARA/GF24-27) Italy9,4Precautionary catch limitCyprus5,6Union15TACNot relevant

Annex

ANNEX VIII FISHING OPPORTUNITIES FOR UNION FISHING VESSELS IN THE ALBORAN SEA The tables in this Annex set out the maximum number of Union fishing vessels authorised to fish for blackspot seabream in the Alboran Sea and the maximum level of catches. References to fishing zones are references to GFCM GSAs. For the purposes of this Annex, the following comparative table of Latin names and common names of fish stocks is provided: Scientific nameAlpha-3 codeCommon namePagellus boraraveoSBRBlackspot seabream

(a) Maximum level of catches carried out by longliners and handliners expressed in tonnes live weight Species Blackspot seabream Pagellus boraraveo Zone: Union waters in the Alboran Sea – GSAs 1, 2 and 3 (SBR/GF1-3) Spain9,1Maximum level of catchesUnion9,1TACNot relevant (b) Maximum number of longliners and handliners authorised for fishing in Alboran Sea (GSAs 1, 2 and 3) Member StateBlackspot seabream in GSAs 1, 2 and 3Spain82

Annex

ANNEX IX FISHING OPPORTUNITIES FOR UNION FISHING VESSELS IN THE BLACK SEA The tables in this Annex set out TACs and quotas expressed in tonnes live weight by stock and, where appropriate, the conditions functionally linked thereto. All fishing opportunities set out in this Annex shall be subject to the rules set out in Articles 26 to 35 of Regulation (EC) No 1224/2009. References to fishing zones are references to GFCM GSAs. For the purposes of this Annex, the following comparative table of Latin names and common names of fish stocks is provided: Scientific nameAlpha-3 codeCommon nameSprattus sprattusSPRSpratScophthalmus maximusTURTurbot Species Sprat Sprattus sprattus Zone: Union waters in the Black Sea – GSA 29 (SPR/F3742C) Bulgaria8032,50 Analytical TAC

Article 4 of Regulation (EC) No 847/96 shall not apply. Romania3442,50Union11475TACNot relevant No fishing activity, including transshipment, retaining on board, landing and first sale, shall be permitted from 15 April to 15 June 2026. Species: Turbot Scophthalmus maximus Zone: Union waters in the Black Sea – GSA 29 (TUR/F3742C) Bulgaria86,3 Analytical TAC