Otter Ferry Seafish's new owner closer to building new RAS facility in Canada
Amar Seafood will grow halibut and wolffish at Prince Edward Island farm
Amar Seafood, which recently bought Scottish halibut and cleaner fish farmer Otter Ferry Seafish, has been granted a permit for its planned land-based fish farm in the Rural Municipality of Victoria on Prince Edward Island (PEI), in Atlantic Canada.
“This development represents a significant step forward, not only for Amar Seafood but also for the local community and the aquaculture industry,” the company said on its website.
“The new facility is set to become the largest land-based aquaculture operation in Eastern Canada. With an annual production capacity exceeding 600 tonnes, it will focus on farming Atlantic halibut and spotted wolffish – two species known for their premium quality and sustainable farming potential.
“Our commitment to sustainability is reflected in every aspect of this project. The facility will feature cutting-edge technology designed to minimise environmental impact while advancing research and development in sustainable aquaculture practices. An ongoing environmental impact assessment ensures our operations align with Amar Seafood’s core values of responsibility and innovation.”
Jobs and growth
The fish farm design incorporates architectural elements that reflect the local charm and includes an interpretation centre that will enable visitors to learn about the aquaculture process and Amar Seafood’s role in delivering sustainable seafood to the world.
Victoria Municipality mayor Martin Ruben said: “I am pleased that our municipality was provided with this tremendous opportunity to become the home for this operation. This aquaculture facility will help meet increasing consumer demand for sustainable seafood, create local job opportunities, and contribute to the province’s economic growth.”
Construction is set to begin in spring 2025, with full operations expected by early 2026.
Amar Group
Amar Seafood is part of Amar Group, which is headquartered in Karmoy, north of Stavanger on the west coast of Norway. It is owned by Bjørn Apeland, a former owner of aquaculture supplier Steinsvik (now ScaleAQ).
Amar Group also operates fish farm service vessels, and has developed Neutralice, a product for dealing with sea lice.
Amar Seafood operates land-based, Ocean Wise-certified halibut and wolffish aquaculture operations located in PEI, and Grand Rivière, Quebec, Canada. It says its broodstock, egg fertilisation, hatchery, nursery, and grow-out operations make it North America’s only fully integrated halibut and wolffish company.
In 2022 Amar Seafood obtained the Halibut PEI facilities in Victoria, PEI, and renamed it Amar Seafood PEI.
