The Norwegian Ministry of Trade and Fisheries has released a proposal for new regulations aimed at expanding offshore aquaculture, focusing on the design and equipment of offshore fish farming facilities. The proposed regulations also clarify that the Working Environment Act will apply to offshore aquaculture activities, addressing safety and environmental concerns as the industry moves into more exposed locations at sea.
As part of the proposal, the Ministry seeks to address the technical, logistical, and safety challenges of operating in harsher sea conditions, such as stronger waves, currents, and winds. The regulations are designed to provide predictability for investors, improve safety for workers in remote locations, and ensure the well-being of both fish and the environment. The consultation also proposes the establishment of a new technical regulation for offshore facilities (HAVTEK) and emphasizes the importance of considering fish welfare and environmental protection early in the design process.
One central issue in the consultation is whether offshore aquaculture should be regulated under the Working Environment Act or maritime laws. The Ministry has also proposed an alternative option to expand the Ship Safety Act to include offshore aquaculture, seeking input from stakeholders.
The proposal follows years of planning and collaboration with various government agencies, including the Directorate of Fisheries and the Norwegian Maritime Authority. Norway’s broader strategy for offshore aquaculture includes the 2022 amendment to the Salmon Allocation Regulation, which created a licensing scheme for offshore locations. This framework is intended to facilitate the establishment of controlled, sustainable aquaculture operations in deeper waters.
The government has identified three areas—”Norskerenna Sør,” “Frøyabanken Nord,” and “Trænabanken”—for environmental assessments to explore offshore aquaculture. These areas are currently under evaluation, with public consultation and environmental tenders ongoing. The Ministry’s work builds on a 2019 report that mapped suitable offshore aquaculture areas and outlined technical requirements for the industry’s growth. Norway aims to lead the global aquaculture industry with sustainable practices, contributing to food security and creating new jobs. The consultation period for stakeholder feedback is now open, with further regulations expected in the near future.
