The Norwegian Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Fisheries announced that Benchmark Genetics Norway had been granted two broodstock licenses, 360 tons for production in the sea and 420 tons for production on land in Benchmark Genetics Salten.

“This represents an important milestone for Benchmark, enhancing our capabilities and the security of supply for our customers. The additional broodstock capacity enlarges the selection pool in our genetics program, reduces operational risk by having broodstock volume at different sites, and supports the future potential expansion of our production of ova in Salten,” the company said.

In recent years, there has been an increasing demand for seasonally independent eggs. “A well-functioning broodstock market is crucial to achieving the goal of sustainable growth in the aquaculture industry. If Norwegian broodstock and egg production is to have the capacity to cover the need for eggs throughout the year, land-based broodstock production must be increased. The company's investment is an important part of securing this access,” said Fisheries and Oceans Minister, Bjørnar Skjæran.

“Benchmark’s genetics operations are core to our ability to supply highly bio-secure salmon eggs to salmon producers year-round. The grant of the new licenses reflects Benchmark’s leading position in the industry, track record, and quality of our operations,” Trond Williksen, CEO of Benchmark, said. “The two new licenses enable us to increase further security of supply of bio-secure, high-quality eggs with high-performing genetic traits for our customers supporting our mission to drive sustainability in aquaculture.”