Benchmark Genetics and Singapore RAS signed a long-term agreement to deliver Atlantic salmon eggs to a project in progress for a land-based RAS facility in Singapore.

The Singapore-based company, Singapore RAS, is in the final phase of financing the first construction phase of a 1,000 ton facility. Further, the company is planning an expansion of up to 3,000 tons in the next stage. Singapore RAS has close relations with Norway and has worked on the plans for local production of Atlantic salmon since January 2020. Today, the company is pursuing the first project to farm Atlantic salmon in Singapore and aims to supply the local home market only.

Benchmark will supply genetics from their Icelandic facilities as soon as the hatchery and freshwater site is in operation, projected in 2023.

“We are building a RAS-based facility for Atlantic salmon in Singapore with a strong focus on sustainability and circular economy, using learnings from similar commercial projects in Northern Europe. We aim to build a successful commercial venture that can become a regional center of knowledge and RAS application in Southeast Asia,” said Esben Johnsen, CEO of Singapore RAS. “Signing with Benchmark is a part of our widespread stakeholder engagement, which already includes some 10 MoUs and strong agreements with future suppliers and partners.”

Geir Olav Melingen, commercial director of Benchmark Genetics, said, “we are pleased to have signed another agreement with a RAS project in Asia, believing that this region will be at the forefront of the growth in the land-based salmon segment worldwide. The fact that Singapore RAS will have a high focus on sustainability, R&D and deployment and embedding of new technologies makes the company a perfect partner for Benchmark.”