Iceland Cancels Whaling Season for Second Year in a Row

April 13, 2025 – Reykjavik, Iceland

Iceland's largest whaling company, Hvalur hf, has announced it will not participate in the whaling season this summer, marking the second consecutive year the company has chosen to abstain from the controversial practice. This decision comes amid ongoing concerns regarding the global economic climate.

Hvalur hf holds a significant role in Iceland’s whaling industry, possessing permits for the hunting of 200 fin whales during the season. However, CEO Kristján Loftsson revealed that the decision to remain inactive this year was heavily influenced by economic factors.

“We have informed our staff of our choice. Given the current economic situation, Hvalur hf sees no other option but to stay docked and wait for better days,” Loftsson stated in an interview with Icelandic media. He added that the situation will be reviewed for the following year, implying that future whaling activities depend on potential improvements in the economic landscape.

While Hvalur hf is not the sole whaling entity in Iceland, it is the largest, and its operational status typically has a significant impact on the overall whaling industry in the country. The ongoing absence of hunting by the prominent company reflects shifting trends in the whaling debate, which has seen increasing scrutiny from international conservation groups and animal rights advocates.

Whaling is a contentious issue, with Iceland, Norway, and Japan currently being the only countries where commercial whaling is permitted. Many countries, alongside various international organizations, advocate for the protection of whale populations, citing ethical concerns, environmental impact, and sustainability. The cancellation of the whaling season in Iceland adds to the ongoing conversation regarding the future of this practice and its viability in an increasingly eco-conscious world.

As Hvalur hf places its operations on hold, the focus on whale conservation and the implications of whaling in the modern economy continue to dominate public discourse.