Mortality fines plan 'is an incentive to keep fish healthy'

In a written question to the minister, Progress Party parliamentary representative Bengt Rune Strifeldt challenged her on why fish farmers should be charged a fee when fish are lost as a result of natural events, while farmers and reindeer owners receive compensation when animals die on pasture or are taken by predators, reports Fish Farming Expert's Norwegian sister site, Kyst.no.

The background to the question is the government's intended fee for lost fish, mentioned in the state budget for 2026, with a view to its introduction in 2027.

Strifeldt warned of “double regulation” where fees for lost fish could be piled on top of government-mandated lice treatment and traffic light system quotas that reduce production. He also highlighted the large losses resulting from last year’s algal bloom.

Incentivising welfare

“The proposal for a fee on lost fish is a follow-up to the animal welfare report and is intended to increase incentives to ensure good welfare, reduce mortality and prevent escapes,” Næss replied.

She clarified that the government is still investigating how the fee can be designed, including possible exceptions, and that it will be sent for consultation before a final decision, where all affected parties have the opportunity to provide input.

Can take action

In her response, the minister pointed out that actors can take measures to reduce the risk of loss.

“Good health throughout production makes the fish better equipped for handling and exposure to infectious agents."

There are also several insurance schemes, said Næss, which cover most sudden and unforeseen damage that can affect live fish, both on land, at sea, and during transport.

During the AqKva conference earlier this year, Næss was clear that the scheme is not about raising more money from the industry and that the government has still not concluded on the introduction of the fee.