Seafood industry demands extension of CO2 tax exemption

The seafood industry in Norway is calling on the government to extend the temporary exemption from CO2 taxes for the fishing fleet through 2026. The exemption expired on September 1, meaning vessels must once again pay taxes on mineral oil.

Tax rates vary based on fishing locations. Vessels operating in near waters face a rate of 4.42 NOK per liter, while those in distant waters pay a reduced rate of 1.11 NOK per liter. Vessels operating in both areas are subject to a rate of 2.76 NOK per liter.

Robert H. Eriksson, CEO of Sjømatbedriftene, warned that the tax increases costs throughout the entire value chain, from fishing vessels to processing and retail. He stated that the industry lacks realistic alternatives to diesel at this time and argued that the tax weakens international competitiveness and could lead to increased bunkering in foreign countries.