Norwegian government proposes new rules to enable large-scale offshore aquaculture.
Norway’s Ministry of Trade, Industry and Fisheries has launched a public consultation on proposed changes to the country’s aquaculture licensing regulations, aiming to facilitate the development of industrial-scale offshore fish farming.
The proposed changes would allow for the allocation of larger marine areas for offshore aquaculture, alongside a new requirement for operators to submit integrated plans covering the establishment, development, operation, and eventual decommissioning of activities within each allocated zone.
Fisheries and Oceans Minister Marianne Sivertsen Næss (Labour) described the move as a step toward a more coordinated and long-term approach to offshore aquaculture infrastructure.
“By allocating larger areas, we enable industrial development and the foundation for dedicated infrastructure,” said Sivertsen Næss. “Offshore aquaculture presents a major opportunity for sustainable food production in Norwegian waters, but requires robust regulatory development to support it.”
Under current rules, licences are awarded to individual sites. The proposed framework would shift toward area-based permits, with successful applicants required to develop site-specific plans that prioritise biosafety, fish welfare, and environmental protection. These plans would include detailed provisions for risk management, occupational health and safety, smolt logistics, harvesting infrastructure, and escape prevention technologies.
Applicants would also need to demonstrate biological, technical, and operational competence in exposed marine environments, as well as financial capacity and relevant experience from sectors such as offshore energy or petroleum.
A separate area allocation regulation is also under development and will set the terms for competitive bidding, which may take place via either auction or a qualitative application process. The Directorate of Fisheries will oversee the technical evaluation of applicants, with final allocation decisions to be made by the ministry.
The consultation is open to all stakeholders. A draft area allocation regulation is expected to be the next milestone in Norway’s evolving offshore aquaculture framework.