Non-MSC certified line-caught haddock fetches higher prices

Line-caught haddock without MSC certification is selling for higher prices than MSC-certified haddock caught by trawlers, according to figures from the Faroese Fish Market (Fiskamarknaður Føroya).

Høgni Hansen, the market’s director, told public broadcaster KVF that buyers do not ask for MSC certification, noting that line-caught haddock is fattier and of better quality than the paler haddock from trawlers. Nearly all haddock traded at the market is sold whole to domestic buyers.

The Faroese haddock fishery lost its MSC certification in April after bycatch levels in the line fishery exceeded ICES recommendations. Despite this, Hansen said other market factors also influence pricing.