Regulation No. 188/2023 on protective measures for vulnerable marine areas and seabed ecosystems.

This Regulation establishes protective measures for vulnerable marine areas and seabed ecosystems within Iceland’s fisheries jurisdiction, aiming to safeguard biodiversity, ecosystems, and apply a precautionary approach to fishing activities. It applies to all fishing vessels operating in Icelandic waters and designates specific zones where fishing is either prohibited or restricted, particularly banning bottom-contact gear in sensitive areas and limiting activities in coral and special seabed ecosystems, while generally allowing only handline fishing and certain pelagic methods in the most protected zones. The Directorate of Fisheries and the Icelandic Coast Guard oversee enforcement, and the Marine and Freshwater Research Institute conducts monitoring and advises the minister, typically every five years, on necessary closures or restrictions. Vessel masters are required to know and comply with the rules and must immediately report any violations. Breaches are subject to penalties under the Fisheries Act.