The Aquatraz is a semi-closed cage developed by Midt-Norsk Havbruk, which is exploring a possible merger with NRS. Photo: MNH.

Norwegian salmon farmers in merger talks

Discussions are taking place about a possible merger between two major Norwegian salmon farmers, Norway Royal Salmon ASA (NRS) and Midt-Norsk Havbruk AS.

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In a brief statement last night, NRS confirmed media reports about the talks but added that “the outcome of these is currently unclear”.

“Any additional information will be published at an appropriate time,” said NRS.

NRS group owns licences for 36,085 tonnes maximum allowed biomass in Troms and Finnmark in northern Norway, and has a minority interest in three associated Norwegian salmon farmers which together own 11 licences.

Aquatraz

It also has a 50% stake in Arctic Fish in Iceland, which farms at five sites in three fjords on the country’s west coast and has licences for 11,800 tonnes maximum allowed biomass. Arctic Fish is part of NTS group, which owns Midt-Norsk Havbruk (MNH).

MNH owns 10 licences and is perhaps best known for its Aquatraz semi-closed pens. NTS group also has interests in smolt production, service boats, wellboats, shipping, ferries and aquaculture and vessel management services.