The decision by Norway’s Ministry of Finance to postpone changes to the CO2 tax regulations has been welcomed by fishing vessel operators’ federation Fiskebåt.
‘This is in the best interests of Norway and the environment, and will lead to increased value creation, increased preparedness and, not least, reduced CO2 emissions,’ said Fiskebåt director Audun Maråk, describing this move as ‘a wise decision.’
He states that this will make a green fishing industry even greener, providing the Norwegian industry with a competitive operating environment in line with that of competitors in other countries.
‘We operate in an international market, and the goal must be to coordinate the tax rules with our competitors, especially the industry in the EU,’ he said, adding that Fiskebåt intends to participate constructively in further discussions related to environmental taxes.
He pointed out that the decision makes it possible to secure Norwegian industrial activity in the Arctic region, and to maintain bunker stations in the north.
‘I appreciate the positive dialogue Fiskebåt has had with various representatives of the government in this matter, and the excellent cooperation we have had with LO, Zero and BunkerOil to find a reasonable solution,’ Audun Maråk said.
