IAOF is a novel non-profit Iceland aquaculture industry association based in Reykjavík.
IAOF aims to become a platform for international cooperation and dissemination of knowledge about marine aquaculture, both at sea and on land, challenges related to climate change and exploitation, and other features of fundamental importance for the sustainable development of the marine aquaculture sector in Iceland.
About IAOF
Our mission
Through IAOF members’ experience, knowledge, and relationship networks, establish partnerships with leading international institutions, research institutions, NGOs, universities, associations, clusters, companies and other stakeholders who can help understand and find solutions to the many challenges the sector faces to today and in the years to come, as well as identify clusters for solution-related initiatives at home.
Participate in the work of creating new meeting places for ocean-related and land-based aquaculture farming themes and the global aquaculture industry.
Generating knowledge about the global ocean-related and land-based aquaculture farming industry targeted at government, international organizations, and business actors at sea and on land.
Arrange the annual meetings of the IAOF, as well as other meetings in cooperation with institutions, the media, etc. to enhance understanding of the marine aquaculture at sea and land industry; as well as exchange knowledge related to the industry.
board
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Kjartan Ólafsson
Chair
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Jón Kjartan Jónsson
Vice Chair
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Ólöf Helga Jónsdóttir
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Árni M. Mathiesen
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Jørgen J. Lund
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Vigdís Häsler
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Hjalti Már Hauksson
MEMBERS
Arctic Fish is a leading salmon farming company in Iceland’s Westfjords. With a strong focus on sustainability, the company prioritizes fish welfare, environmental protection, and community development. As part of the global aquaculture group Mowi, Arctic Fish combines local expertise with international best practices to advance responsible aquaculture in Iceland.
Geo Salmo is an innovative Icelandic aquaculture company developing a state-of-the-art land-based salmon farm near Þorlákshöfn. With cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices, Geo Salmo aims to produce premium-quality salmon in harmony with the environment. The company’s vision is to advance Iceland’s role in responsible and future-oriented aquaculture.
Laxey is developing a high-tech land-based salmon farming facility in Vestmannaeyjar, Iceland. With a strong focus on innovation, circular economy principles, and renewable energy, Laxey aims to produce sustainable, premium-quality salmon. The company’s vision is to create a model for environmentally responsible aquaculture that benefits both nature and community.
Samherji is one of Iceland’s leading aquaculture companies, focusing on the production of Arctic char and salmon. With operations in land-based and sea-based farming, the company emphasizes sustainability, innovation, and fish welfare. Samherji Fish Farming combines decades of expertise with modern technology to deliver premium, responsibly farmed seafood.
Arnarlax is Iceland’s largest salmon farming company, based in the Westfjords. The company is dedicated to producing high-quality salmon in harmony with nature, with a strong focus on sustainability, innovation, and community engagement. As part of SalMar, Arnarlax brings global expertise to advance responsible aquaculture and support rural development.
First Water is an Icelandic company pioneering sustainable land-based aquaculture. Located in Þorlákshöfn, the company focuses on hybrid flow-through systems to ensure responsible salmon farming with minimal environmental footprint. By combining innovation, technology, and respect for nature, First Water contributes to the future of sustainable seafood production.
Marsh is an Icelandic aquaculture company focusing on sustainable land-based salmon farming on the Reykjanes Peninsula. By combining advanced recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) with Iceland’s renewable energy, Marsh is committed to producing high-quality salmon with minimal environmental impact, strengthening the country’s position as a leader in responsible aquaculture.
Thor Landeldi has begun constructing a land-based salmon farming facility near Þorlákshöfn, about 2.5 km west of the town. The site offers excellent conditions for aquaculture with abundant fresh water and clean seawater pumped from coastal boreholes. The company is led by experienced professionals with a combined 80 years in salmon farming and plans a total production capacity of 20,000 tonnes in four phases.
Benchmark Genetics Iceland specializes in the breeding and production of high-quality salmon eggs, supporting sustainable growth of the aquaculture industry worldwide. Based in Iceland’s unique biosecure environment, the company focuses on innovation, fish health, and genetic improvement. Benchmark Genetics is a trusted partner driving responsible and efficient salmon farming.
Kaldvik is an Icelandic aquaculture company developing sustainable land-based salmon farming on the Reykjanes Peninsula. With a focus on innovation, food security, and environmental responsibility, Kaldvik aims to produce high-quality salmon while minimizing ecological impact. The company’s goal is to strengthen Iceland’s position as a leader in responsible aquaculture.
Matorka is a pioneering Icelandic aquaculture company specializing in sustainable land-based farming of Arctic char and salmon. Based in Grindavík, the company harnesses Iceland’s renewable geothermal energy and pure groundwater to minimize environmental impact. Matorka is committed to producing premium-quality fish while advancing innovation and sustainability in global food systems.