Norwegian aquaculture stands at a crossroads

If we play the cards correctly, we strengthen the future contribution of the aquaculture industry to safe jobs, the Norwegian economy and the coastal districts.

The aquaculture history along the coast is nothing short of impressive. Aquaculture has formed the basis for the development of coastal communities and secured « light in the houses ». This success has ripple effects far beyond the farms themselves.

Thousands of workplaces are directly linked to operations at sea and on land, and an even larger number finds employment in a broad supply industry – in transport, processing, building and research, to name a few

Major challenges

The aquaculture industry has a complex challenge picture. On the one hand, there are expectations of sustainable growth and increased production. On the other hand, the industry is confronted with significant environmental considerations, where salmon lice, escape and impact on local ecosystems require continuous improvement and innovative solutions.

Before Easter, the government presents the long -awaited aquaculture report, which will stake out the course for the further development of the aquaculture industry.

Then short -term political considerations must not get in the way of long -term and sustainable development of the sector. An uncertain and unpredictable policy will affect both the willingness to invest and the innovation power, as well as have direct negative consequences for the workplaces and the many communities that are so dependent on a well -functioning aquaculture industry.

It is therefore important that everyone takes responsibility for our constructive discussions and broad settlement through the political treatment of the future.

Coastal Norway therefore encourages all political parties to take a shared responsibility for the future of this important industry. Constructive dialogue is needed to find good solutions across the parties.

Now the Storting must show responsibility and let the aquaculture report become a tool for further sustainable growth and development along the coast, for the benefit of the industry, local communities and the nation as a whole.