Marine Ingredients Denmark resigns from Think Tank Hav over concerns that CO2 tax recommendations unfairly target certain fisheries sectors. Photo: MID
Industry Group Cites Concerns Over Fisheries Policy and Economic Impact
Marine Ingredients Denmark has announced its resignation from Think Tank Hav, citing concerns over the think tank’s approach to fisheries-related policy recommendations, particularly regarding the proposed CO2 tax on fisheries.
The decision follows what the organisation views as an imbalanced representation of Denmark’s fishing industry in the think tank’s recent recommendations.
In a statement released on 12 March 2025, Marine Ingredients Denmark acknowledged the importance of Think Tank Hav’s work for the marine environment but emphasised the need for a comprehensive and accurate data foundation when making policy recommendations.
CO2 Tax Controversy and Selective Data Use
The primary reason behind the resignation is the think tank’s recent recommendations regarding a CO2 tax, which Marine Ingredients Denmark argues disproportionately target bottom-trawling fisheries while neglecting pelagic fisheries. Unlike bottom trawlers, pelagic fisheries target free-swimming species like blue whiting and sprat, which have no direct contact with the seabed. The failure to account for these distinctions, the organisation argues, results in a misleading representation of the fishing industry’s overall environmental impact.
Furthermore, Marine Ingredients Denmark questioned the real climate benefits of Denmark’s unilateral CO2 tax on fisheries. Since its implementation in January 2025, the tax has reportedly caused a significant reduction in landings at Danish ports, as some fishermen have chosen to land their catches and refuel in neighbouring countries like Scotland and Norway. The Danish Fisheries Agency reported that blue whiting landings in Danish ports fell to zero in January 2025, compared to over 6,500 tonnes in the same month the previous year. Sprat landings also dropped sharply from nearly 28,000 tonnes in January 2024 to around 19,800 tonnes in January 2025.
Concerns Over Economic and Industry-Wide Impact
Marine Ingredients Denmark also raised concerns about the broader consequences of the CO2 tax, arguing that it fails to consider its impact on the Danish fisheries sector, particularly on downstream industries. The organisation highlighted that a reduction in landings directly affects fish auctions, processing companies—including Denmark’s fishmeal and fish oil producers—electricians, seine knotters, and other businesses vital to the blue economy. With fewer landings in Danish ports, coastal communities relying on these industries could face significant economic challenges.
“We believe that the recommendations do not sufficiently reflect a balanced assessment of the entire Danish fisheries cluster,” Marine Ingredients Denmark stated. “A CO2 tax on fisheries will have significant consequences for the processing industry and the many jobs linked to the blue value chain.”
Commitment to Continued Dialogue
Despite its departure from Think Tank Hav, Marine Ingredients Denmark expressed appreciation for the collaboration and reaffirmed its willingness to engage in dialogue with the think tank in the future.
“We thank Think Tank Hav for the cooperation and look forward to continuing discussions on fisheries policy and environmental sustainability,” the statement concluded.
About Think Tank Hav
Think Tank Hav is an independent, knowledge-based, and solution-oriented organisation that facilitates collaboration between businesses, NGOs, and decision-makers to promote ocean sustainability. Founded in 2021 with DKK 75 million in funding from the VELUX FOUNDATION, it produces research and policy recommendations aimed at ensuring better protection of Danish marine areas, strengthening biodiversity, and promoting sustainable ocean use.
The think tank works as a membership organisation, engaging with stakeholders to develop data-driven solutions and advocate for improved ocean management. It supports collaboration between industry and policymakers while maintaining an independent approach to research and recommendations.
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