Gamvik, a small Norwegian municipality, is facing a severe economic crisis as nearly 100 jobs in the fishery sector have vanished within weeks.

The closure of Aalesundfisk and the suspension of operations at Gamvik Seafoods have left almost one in ten residents unemployed.

Mayor Ragnhild Vassvik expressed deep concern over the potential for depopulation, as the community struggles with limited employment opportunities.

The crisis stems from a halt in haddock fishing for vessels over 11 meters, a decision made by the Fisheries Directorate due to quota exhaustion.

This has disrupted the supply chain for local fish processing plants, further impacting the local economy.

Efforts to redistribute quotas to larger vessels are being considered to sustain both sea and land activities.