Mowi holding strategic review of operations in western Canada

The world’s biggest salmon farmer, Mowi, is to initiate a strategic review of its operations in British Columbia following the Canadian government’s decision to ban open net pen farming in the province from mid-2029.

“The government proposes to move BC salmon farms into closed containment systems or on to land. Further details including a draft plan for the required transition are expected to be announced shortly and will be followed by another period of consultation,” Mowi wrote in its report for the second quarter of 2024, published today.

“We are disappointed with the decision since traditional marine salmon farming is absolutely sustainable, thus the basis for the decision lacks scientific merit. Following the political decision, Mowi has decided to initiate a strategic review of the Canada West business unit and will explore all available options before taking the appropriate action.”

Farm closures

Mowi Canada West has already had capacity reduced in BC due to a decision by Canada’s Liberal-led federal government to close around 19 salmon farms in the Discovery Islands area. Mowi bore the brunt of the closures, although other companies were also affected.

The unexpected decision by former fisheries minister Bernadette Jordan led to job losses on Mowi farms and the closure of a processing facility.

Mowi Canada West also lost farms in the Broughton Archipelago as part of a phased closure plan instigated by the provincial government and First Nations who didn’t want salmon farming operations carried out in their traditional territories.

All of Mowi’s salmon farming in BC is now carried out in agreement with First Nations in whose territories the farms are situated. First Nations supportive of salmon farming have formed the Coalition of First Nations for Finfish Stewardship to prevent the closure of the industry in BC and protect an important source of jobs and income for First Nation members.