Approval of a fish trade groups

Cooperatives that wish to start a fish trade group.

Only fishermen or organisations of fishermen can be members of a fish trade group.

Section 4 of the Act relating to first-hand sales of wild living marine resources (Fish Trade Groups Act) (in Norwegian only)

Regulations relating to first-hand sales of wild living marine resources (in Norwegian only)

Pursuant to Section 8 of the Fish Trade Groups Act, first-hand sales of wild living marine resources must take place through or with the approval of a fish trade group.

It is prohibited to use or produce wild living marine resources that have not been sold first-hand with the approval of a fish trade group, unless this is for own use.

The Ministry can approve a cooperative as a fish trade group. Pursuant to Section 4 of the Fish Trade Groups Act, only fishermen or fishermen organisations can be members of a fish trade group.

The articles of association must have provisions regarding the following:

• The organisation must have an audit committee.
• Activities carried out by the fish trade group that do not involve the direct organisation of first-hand sales must take place through an own company.
• Any decision regarding the use of capital when dissolving the fish trade group must be approved by the Ministry.
• Disputes between the fish trade group and the members must be resolved in a specific manner.

Remarks: 

A fish trade group has an audit requirement.

The Ministry will appoint a public inspector in each fish trade group who will supervise activities. The fish trade group must pay fees in accordance with the rates determined by the Ministry. The inspector must have unhindered access to all books, minutes and correspondence for the fish trade group. The inspector shall attend board meetings and the annual meetings of the fish trade group.