Two companies were fined and confiscated for violating the Customs Act and the Marine Resources Act while exporting king crab.
The requests were made because the companies exported king crab as Norwegian king crab without complying with the documentation requirements. The companies are not considered to have deliberately broken the rules to gain an advantage.
One company was fined PLN 4 million NOK and almost NOK 5,7 million in confiscation. The second company received a fine of NOK 200 and just over NOK 000 in confiscation.
None of these companies have been prosecuted.
– Due to proper customs handling and seafood traceability, there are strict requirements for documentation of seafood origin. Seafood exporters have a strict responsibility for proper customs handling and seafood traceability, says state prosecutor Jens Bachke in Økokrim.
The case was reported by the Customs Office and the Fisheries Directorate
Inspections of two seafood exporters revealed that incorrect documentation of origin had been issued for the export of more than 380 tonnes of king crab. The value of exported goods amounted to approx. NOK 150 million.
– The violation of the rules of origin in the Norwegian Free Trade Agreements contributes to a worse competitive environment for major players. This is something we take seriously, says acting head of section Baard Nenseter at the Customs Agency.
“We are also working to ensure that consumers are sure where the fish comes from. It is therefore important that the Directorate of Fisheries monitors traceability breaches, says Acting Department Director Svanes Hjørungnes at the Norwegian Directorate of Fisheries.
Both companies accepted fines and seizures
Fines and confiscations are calculated on the basis of the customs advantage and financial advantage that companies have obtained as a result of their mistakes. Both companies accepted the applications and the cases were closed.
Like us on Facebook and share our post with others. Thank you.
Source: Økokrim
Read and learn more: Help with snow removal? Think about the law about the work environment
