Norway delays aquaculture reform as political compromise draws criticism from environmentalists.
Norway’s centre-left government has postponed the introduction of new aquaculture regulations following a cross-party compromise that maintains the existing licensing system while initiating further studies. The move has drawn criticism from environmental groups and opposition parties, who argue that the measures fall short of protecting the country’s struggling wild salmon population.
The agreement, supported by Labour (Ap), Centre Party (Sp), Conservative Party (H), Progress Party (Frp), Socialist Left (SV) and the Liberal Party (V), defers implementation of major structural changes in salmon farming until after 2026, with full adoption expected within two to four years. In the interim, the current “traffic light” system and maximum biomass (MTB) limits will remain in place, though new incentive schemes are to be introduced to reduce environmental impacts, according to a joint statement cited by NRK.
Fisheries Minister Marianne Sivertsen Næss (Ap) described the broad consensus as a step toward “predictability for the industry and coastal communities.”
The decision follows months of industry pushback against a government proposal that included sea lice emission quotas and penalties for fish mortality and escapes. According to E24, these proposals will now be subject to further consultation and review.
The government also committed to begin work on measures aimed at reducing fish mortality to 5 per cent, as outlined in the Animal Welfare White Paper. Last year, mortality during the marine phase of production exceeded 15 per cent — the equivalent of 58 million fish.
Opposition calls deal inadequate
The Green Party (MDG) and the Red Party (Rødt) declined to support the agreement, arguing it fails to address the deteriorating condition of wild salmon stocks. “This aquaculture deal does not save the wild salmon,” said Rødt MP Geir Jørgensen. “It allows for continued growth in an industry that lacks control over escapes, lice, pollution, and mortality.”
MDG MP Rasmus Hansson described the compromise as a retreat. “The government collapsed when the industry said no,” he said.
While SV joined the agreement, party finance spokesperson Kari Elisabeth Kaski expressed frustration at the outcome, saying she had pushed for binding requirements on closed containment systems — a proposal that failed to gain broader support.
Labour’s lead negotiator, Rune Støstad, defended the compromise as a realistic and knowledge-based path forward. “We are not weakening the ambition,” he told E24. “We are strengthening it by ensuring it can actually be implemented.”
Environmental pressures intensify
Wild salmon populations in Norway are at historic lows. Researchers cite aquaculture-related threats such as sea lice, escapes, and disease as the main anthropogenic risks. Climate change is also an increasing concern.
The aquaculture sector has acknowledged the need for reform but remains wary of the scope and speed of proposed regulatory changes. Industry representatives have called for greater consultation and more thorough economic and scientific assessments before any new system is enacted.
The compromise agreement includes a “technology-neutral” environmental licence framework allowing operators to avoid production cuts at sites with zero emissions of sea lice. This scheme is scheduled to take effect in autumn 2025 and may be expanded depending on the outcome of future evaluations.
The final version of the aquaculture white paper will go to a parliamentary vote on 12 June, following the conclusion of the Standing Committee on Business and Industry’s deliberations.