Strategy for Swedish Fisheries and Aquaculture 2021–2026 – Healthy Ecosystems and Sustainable Use.

The Strategy for Swedish Fisheries and Aquaculture 2021–2026 outlines a national framework for the sustainable development of professional fishing, recreational fishing, fish tourism, and aquaculture. Developed by the Swedish Board of Agriculture and the Swedish Agency for Marine and Water Management, the Strategy is based on an ecosystem-based approach and is designed to support environmental, economic, and social sustainability. It emphasizes improved governance, collaboration among stakeholders, better use of aquatic resources, and the importance of knowledge-sharing. It also addresses urgent environmental challenges like eutrophication, declining fish stocks, habitat degradation, and complex permitting procedures in aquaculture.
The Strategy is structured around three overarching objectives: (1) Well-managed and functioning ecosystems, (2) Competitiveness, profitability, and social value, and (3) Knowledge and communication; each one with sub-goals. Key goals include reducing environmental impacts from fisheries and aquaculture, improving regulatory compliance and animal welfare, increasing food production and processing, simplifying regulations, promoting local employment, and developing new markets for sustainable aquatic products. The Strategy also promotes the use of low-trophic species (like mussels and algae) and improved health and welfare standards for aquaculture animals.
To support implementation, the Strategy calls for coordinated efforts between national and regional authorities, municipalities, research institutions, and industry stakeholders. It highlights the importance of clear regulatory guidance, enhanced monitoring, digitization, and sector-specific education and innovation. The creation of a shared platform for cooperation is a central component for long-term success. The Strategy is intended to guide not only national action but also Sweden’s contributions to international fisheries and aquaculture governance. The Strategy will be implemented through three sector-specific action plans for the sustainable development of Swedish fisheries and aquaculture.