"We now expect the authorities to follow through on their promises so that allocation rounds can begin as soon as possible," said Sjømatbedriftene's Johann Martin Krüger.
Photo: Sjømatbedriftene.
Norwegian seafood trade association Sjømatbedriftene has submitted its response to a government consultation on proposed regulations for offshore aquaculture, including changes to salmon licensing rules.
Johann Martin Krüger, Sjømatbedriftene’s advisor for business policy and communications, welcomed the government’s approach, saying it largely matches the conditions needed to build a viable offshore aquaculture industry.
"We are pleased that the authorities are continuing to maintain momentum in establishing a regulatory framework that supports Norway's next major industrial opportunity," Krüger said. "This is a historic chance to merge two industries in which Norwegians are world leaders: salmon farming and offshore operations."
However, he stressed that predictability is crucial for businesses considering major investments, citing a report by Oslo Economics which found that successful development in just one of the three proposed offshore areas could create more than 1,000 jobs and generate billions in investments.
The regulatory process for offshore aquaculture has been ongoing for three parliamentary terms, with activity increasing over the past year. Krüger urged the government to maintain this pace so that allocation rounds for development areas can begin soon.
"We now expect the authorities to follow through on their promises so that allocation rounds can begin as soon as possible," he stated.
Sjømatbedriftene also called for the areas designated for offshore aquaculture to be large enough to allow flexibility. Krüger said companies must be able to identify the most suitable production sites within the broader zones, given the lack of detailed data on ocean conditions.
"Not all parts of the assessed areas are equally suitable for salmon production," he said. "By allowing companies awarded the areas to narrow down the specific sites themselves, we can ensure the highest possible socio-economic value, while also prioritising safety for people, fish, and property."
Sjømatbedriftene's official response follows that of Norwegian seafood federation Sjømat Norge, which broadly welcomed the government proposals as a “significant step forward” and "demonstrating a holistic and long-term approach", but similarly called for predictable timelines to ensure companies can prepare strong applications and make investment decisions.