© NFD
Recent amendments to Norway's Salmon Allocation Regulations and the Aquaculture Biosecurity Regulations clarify the distinction between land-based and sea-based operations. The updated rules aim to provide greater predictability for both industry stakeholders and regulators.
A major change is the introduction of a requirement to disinfect intake water at land-based facilities to reduce the risk of pathogen transmission. The changes also clarify the conditions for the location of facilities – making the boundary between what is considered land-based and sea-based aquaculture more clearly defined.
“The government wants to facilitate the sustainable development of land-based fish farming. There has been significant technological progress since the current regulations were introduced. That’s why changes have been necessary. A clearer distinction between land-based and sea-based farming will provide more predictable conditions for industry and administration,” said Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Policy Marianne Sivertsen Næss in a press release.
The Ministry received nearly 50 public submissions during the consultation period, which led to several adjustments in the final rules. According to the Norwegian government, these standardised requirements will not only make it easier for operators to navigate the application system, but also help ensure that all applicants are treated fairly and evaluated by the same criteria.
“The requirement to treat intake water is necessary to reduce the risk of spreading pathogens to marine facilities and to ensure good biosecurity in land-based facilities. This will benefit both existing marine operators located near land-based facilities, as well as the marine environment,” said Næss.
The new rules apply only to new facilities. Existing ones are exempt unless they undergo significant changes, which will be defined in upcoming guidance from the Norwegian Food Safety Authority.
Context
Norway temporarily halted applications for land-based salmon and trout farms in December 2022 amid concerns that some proposed facilities – though technically on land – had environmental and disease risks comparable to traditional open-net pens. The regulatory changes now aim to close that gap while supporting sustainable technological development in land-based systems.
