The Norwegian government is toughening its restriction on Russian fishing vessels in the three ports at which it still allows them to dock.

It is introducing restrictions on how long and where Russian vessels may dock in Tromso, Batsfjord and Kirkenes, as well as strengthening control activities by the police.

"It is a fundamental Norwegian interest to look after the fish stocks in the Barents Sea. It is important for employment and settlement in the north, and especially in Finnmark," said Fisheries and Oceans Minister Marianne Sivertsen Naess. Norway and Russia jointly manage the Barents Sea cod fishery, recently advising a cut of 31% in the quota for 2025 to 311,587 metric tons.

"At the same time, we must ensure that no unwanted activity takes place in the three ports that are partially exempt from the extensive port ban we have along the coast. Now we will introduce new restrictions that take into account both sustainable management and better control in the ports," she said.

Police presence will especially be heightened in Batsfjord, the government said.

"We have closed all ports to Russian vessels, with the exception of three ports which are partially open to Russian fishing vessels. Control activity is already high, but the police and customs are now strengthening their control, and we are placing stricter requirements on Russian fishing vessels when staying in port," added Norway's Minister of Justice and Emergency Preparedness, Emilie Enger Mehl.

Russian vessels may call at the three ports to unload fish, change crew and secure provisions. They will now be restricted to staying for a maximum of five working days, or seven, including weekends and holidays.

A minimum of three days must also have passed since a ship's previous stay in a Norwegian port.

The Russian vessels will also now be limited in terms of where in the ports they may dock.