The Irish players were first out – and kicked off HavExpo with a separate breakfast before the official opening.
The Irish Ambassador Claire Buckley had travelled to Bergen, along with representatives from ten Irish aquaculture companies. The breakfast gathering was a clear signal of close and growing cooperation between Ireland and Norway in the aquaculture industry.
“We have ten Irish companies with us, which gives a good picture of the breadth of the industry, with everything from marine engineering and sustainability to seaweed innovation. It is very important for us to be here, to have the conversations and make the connections that are absolutely crucial for these growing companies,” says Buckley.
She says that Bergen is a natural gathering place for the industry.
– This is my fourth or fifth visit to Bergen, and it is a city I always like to come back to. All the Irish companies say the same thing: Bergen is the place to be. This is where the aquaculture industry is, and this is where they can build relationships that help them further their development, she says.
The Irish seafood organization BIM is also present at the fair, with the goal of opening doors for Irish suppliers in the Norwegian market.
– This is our second time at HavExpo. Last time we went around the fair and had a look, but this year we have our own stand and no fewer than ten Irish companies with us. For them, this is an opportunity to explore the Norwegian market, says Damian Toner, Aquatech Business Manager at BIM.
He points out that the companies represent different parts of the supply industry.
– We have companies that develop sensor technology, RAS solutions and functional feed solutions. Some are already in the Norwegian market, while others want to establish themselves. The goal is both to meet existing customers and to better understand the needs and challenges of the industry in Norway, says Toner.
In addition to the professional benefits, he highlights the value of the meeting place itself.
– HavExpo is a fantastic arena for meeting fish farmers, suppliers, authorities and organizations. It is also a good opportunity to meet colleagues and partners again, says a satisfied Toner.
