The Norwegian fishing vessel owners' association, Fiskebåt, has welcomed a decision by the country's Ministry of Finance to postpone changes to CO2 tax regulations, describing the move as a "wise decision". The proposed changes would have phased out tax-free bunkering for Norwegian vessels, including its fishing fleets, before sailing abroad.
Audun Maråk, CEO of Fiskebåt, stated that the postponement is in the best interests of Norway and the environment and will lead to increased value creation and preparedness.
He argued that the fishing fleet operates in an international market and that tax rules should be coordinated with competitors, especially those in the EU, to ensure the industry has competitive conditions.
Maråk also pointed out that the decision makes it possible to secure Norwegian industrial activity in the Arctic and to maintain bunker stations in the north, which he described as important for Norwegian preparedness. Fiskebåt stated it will participate constructively in further investigations related to environmental taxes.