Fishermen in Madeira and the Azores can now resume bigeye tuna fishing, an activity that had been suspended for several years. The reopening follows the securing of an additional 500-ton quota for 2026, achieved through coordination between the two Regional Governments and the central Government.
The Regional Secretariat for Agriculture and Fisheries of Madeira highlighted that this quota increase presents an opportunity to boost fishermen's income. The decision underscores the importance of a unified stance between the autonomous regions in advocating for the fishing sector's interests.
Operational rules have been implemented, including catch limits per trip and by vessel size, alongside a fishing trip limit of one every 48 hours. A memorandum of understanding between the Regional Governments of Madeira and the Azores, effective since January 2025, aims to promote resource sustainability and economic activity stability.
