Huon signs deal with Pure Salmon for new RAS smolt plant
State-of-the-art facility will more than double land-based farming capacity
Australian salmon farmer Huon Aquaculture has signed a deal with RAS (recirculating aquaculture system) specialist Pure Salmon Technology to install a new land-based smolt facility at its site in Tasmania.
The facility will incorporate cutting-edge RAS technology, ensuring optimal biosecurity, water efficiency, and fish health, and will enable Huon to grow bigger fish on land.
Huon’s general manager of aquaculture Depha Miedecke said: “Huon has led the way in Tasmania in investments in recirculating aquaculture systems and the proposed project will more than double our land-based farming capacity.
Excellent team
“Growing larger fish on land reduces the amount of time our salmon spend in the marine environment and supports stable year-round production.
“Pending regulatory approvals, we’re looking forward to working with the excellent team at Pure Salmon and local contractors, including electricians and builders, to bring this project to life.”
The new facility, with high intensity of recirculation and close to zero environmental impact, is tailored to Huon’s specific environmental and operational needs, said Norway based Pure Salmon, which has opened an office in Tasmania, to be led by Patrick Tigges.
Australian market
The company’s managing director, Luke Kellgren Parker, said: “We are honoured to be selected by Huon Aquaculture for this important project after months of excellent design collaboration.
“This project not only marks our expansion into the Australian market but also showcases the delivery of a facility built around Fixed Bed Bio Reactor (FBBR) technology — a tailored solution for Huon that complements our traditional MBBR (Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor) offering.
“Our shared commitment to innovation, sustainability, and fish welfare makes this a natural and promising partnership.”
Strategic milestone
Pure Salmon is owned by Singapore based investment fund 8F Asset Management. Founder and chairman Stephane Farouze described the collaboration with Huon as a “strategic milestone” in the company’s global roadmap.
“We are excited to support a project that reflects our shared commitment to innovation, environmental responsibility, and long-term value creation. We trust this is just the first step in a long and fruitful partnership with Huon.”
Construction of the new facility is scheduled to commence in Q3 2025, with full commissioning expected in 2027.