Arnarlax celebrates 100,000 tonne milestone

The company, which was founded in 2010, said its output was the equivalent of 500 million meals.

Arnarlax, now part of the Norwegian SalMar group, has grown rapidly and has managed to increase its production capacity while maintaining quality and minimising the environmental impact of production.

It says the company’s increased production capacity has been supported in a targeted manner by investments in infrastructure, technology and innovation to ensure responsible and sustainable production methods.

Production has increased year on year or from 6,100 tonnes in 2016 and peaked at 17,800 tonnes in 2023, which is equivalent to an average of 11,100 tonnes each year.

The company’s production capacity is up to 26,000 tonnes per year, but the company aims for continued expansion based on sustainable production methods.

Björn Hembre, CEO of Arnarlax said: “This is an important and satisfying milestone in the company’s 15-year journey.

“This success is the result of the hard work of our employees in all departments of the company. Every single tonne confirms our vision and commitment to society and the environment.

He added: “We are not only looking at the amount of production, but also how — so that our methods contribute to minimal impact on the environment.”

Arnarlax says its goal has always been to promote job creation in the southern Westfjords. In parallel with the company’s increased expansion, the number of employees, contractors, service providers and secondary jobs in the area has increased, and it now has 184 employees.

Hembre added: “Salmon farming is an important industry in the Westfjords and also one of the most important industries in Iceland, with the industry’s export value estimated at ISK 40 billion in 2023, or 4.3% of the nation’s merchandise exports, and is on track to reach around 5% in 2024.

“There is still room for growth in the industry, but in order to maximise the potential of salmon farming for Iceland, there needs to be a clear legal framework, competitive taxes, and the government’s willingness to utilise this resource sustainably.

He stressed: “The uncertainty facing the industry is not good for anyone. The potential is great in Iceland, and export revenues from salmon may eventually exceed those from cod.”