The government has presented its latest state budget proposal for this term. Seafood Companies CEO Robert H. Eriksson is very disappointed that the government is not taking the necessary steps to eliminate harmful taxes, but continues to drain capital and competitiveness from private companies.

 

Robert H. Eriksson, CEO of Seafood Companies, sharply criticized Norway's 2025 state budget, emphasizing that the fiscal policies continue to negatively impact the fishing industry. He expressed disappointment that the government has not removed what he called "damaging taxes" that drain capital and competitiveness from aquaculture businesses. Eriksson pointed out that the fishing industry is a major contributor to the country's economy, even funding all elderly care home spaces, yet it remains underappreciated by the government.

 

The industry is burdened by several taxes, such as production taxes, export taxes, and a basic interest tax, which have added up to over 20 billion Norwegian kroner since 2018. Additionally, a report by KPMG indicates that Norwegian aquaculture businesses face a significantly higher tax burden (47%) compared to international competitors (21-24%).

 

 

Eriksson also criticized the land rent tax on aquaculture, arguing that it should have been used to reduce other harmful taxes instead of increasing public spending. Despite these challenges, fishing companies will continue to push for reforms to improve competitiveness, including reducing the wealth tax and eliminating VAT on seafood products.