Cermaq is evaluating the construction of a new large-scale salmon processing plant in northern Norway as it prepares for increased production volumes in the region, according to NRK.
The company is considering a new facility in Hammerfest as one option to expand processing capacity. Cermaq currently operates two plants in the region, both dating from the 2000s, which may also require upgrades as an alternative to a new build.
The assessment comes as Cermaq scales up production following its acquisition of farming operations from Grieg Seafood in Finnmark and Canada. Annual output is expected to exceed 200,000 tonnes in 2026.
Higher volumes are increasing pressure on processing infrastructure. Around 90,000 tonnes of salmon were exported from the region in 2025, with a value of NOK 7.5 billion.
Cermaq has signed a letter of intent with the local port authority for access to industrial land for a potential development. The proposed site could also include related industrial facilities linked to processing.
Regional director Gudmund Gudmundsson said the company needs to ensure sufficient local capacity as production grows, in order to avoid transporting fish to processing plants further south.
Cermaq has not taken a final investment decision. Construction of a new plant would take around two years, according to the company.
The proposal is subject to local political approval. Cermaq employs around 650 people across its operations in northern Norway.