Canada's Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) on Thursday announced a 32 percent increase in the total allowable catch (TAC) for the Newfoundland and Labrador (NL) snow crab fishery.

Fishers will be allowed to harvest 50,470 metric tons in 2022 when the fishery opens in early April.

Last year, fishermen landed 38,186 metric tons, representing a 29 percent increase over 2020.

With crab now the main backbone of the fishery in Newfoundland and Labrador, officials underlined the importance of striking a balance between economic prosperity and a cautious approach to maintaining the fishery's sustainability.

"Responsible management between harvesters, indigenous fishers and other partners has helped this valuable snow crab fishery grow," Fisheries Minister Joyce Murray said.

The TAC increase is good news for buyers across several markets, particularly the United States, who are suffering from a shortage of crab from Alaska, and a ban on Russian seafood imports, including crab.