April 28, 2005

Norway salmon gets 20 percent levy to protect Scottish seafood

The cost of Norwegian salmon within the EU will be increased by about 20 percent beginning April 27 as part of an attempt to save fish farming in Scotland.

Allegations have been made by the EU Salmon Producers Group (EUSPG), representing Scottish and Irish firms against the Norwegian government, that it has been subsidising an unprofitable industry. The group says over-production has led to unsustainably low prices threatening fish farming in Scotland and Ireland, and in contravention of WTO rules.

Angus Morgan, of the EUSPG, said creating duties would level the playing field. It is also crucial to an industry which has contracted by 33 percent in the last two years.