Multi-annual plans: on track for maximum sustainable yield

The European Union made a commitment to manage certain stocks under multi-annual plans within the framework
of agreements with Norway and other neighbouring countries, as early as 1996. The first stock concerned was North
Sea herring, followed by cod, haddock and mackerel.

It was not until 2002, however, with the reform of the Common Fisheries Policy, that the EU formally wrote this management principle into European legislation. Today, more than 40% of European catches are taken within the framework of multi-annual plans and there are clear signs that this is the right direction.