Industry fury as police probe alleged misuse of major salmon brands.
Norwegian police have opened a formal investigation into alleged illegal export practices at Bergen-based salmon trader North Tandem, following NRK disclosures and multiple complaints from industry companies and the Food Safety Authority. Several individuals in the company are charged with document forgery, breaches of the food law and providing false information to the Food Safety Authority. The charges also cover violations of regulations governing the export of downgraded production fish. The offences carry a maximum penalty of two years, according to Vest police district.
Police officers searched the company’s offices at Nesttun in Bergen on Thursday and removed documents and materials as part of the investigation.
NRK reported in November that North Tandem may have exported production fish to Kazakhstan while presenting it as ordinary salmon and that the company had allegedly used forged labels and certificates linked to a number of Norwegian processors. Companies including Nordlaks and Alsvåg Lakseslakteri have filed complaints after discovering what they believe to be unauthorised use of their packing numbers.
Violations
Nordlaks said its complaint concerns alleged document fraud, misuse of its brand and breaches of the food law. Communications and market manager Heidi Torkildson Ryste said North Tandem’s practices, if proven, could create significant economic gain for those involved and that the company hopes the investigation will clarify the facts and remove non-compliant actors from the market.
Alsvåg Lakseslakteri has also filed a complaint, stating that the company would never have permitted the use of its packing number and that correct labelling is essential for food traceability. Several other processors shown labels by NRK have indicated that their identities may have been misused and are considering whether to follow with their own reports.
Mattilsynet has confirmed that it has reported North Tandem for alleged violations of rules on fish quality, identity and traceability, as well as for the use of incorrect information in health certificates issued for export. The authority said its complaint is based on its own inspections and information disclosed through media reports.
Dispute
In a statement through Elden Advokatfirma, North Tandem said it disputes that the company or any employees have committed offences. The company said it welcomes the police investigation and considers it an opportunity for an objective review after what it describes as speculative media coverage. North Tandem maintains that current operations comply with all applicable laws and regulations and that it cooperates fully with the Food Safety Authority and other authorities.
Mowi has also been shown an image of a label carrying its name which may have been falsified. Communications director Ola Helge Hjetland said the company notes that actors who appear to have been more directly affected have already filed complaints and that any unlawful practices will be examined and handled accordingly.
Police have not commented on timelines for the investigation.
