Registration of Buyers and Sellers Scheme
The registration of Buyers and Sellers (RBS) scheme was launched in April 2011 on the Isle of Man. It will initially be a voluntary scheme, with it becoming compulsory in the near future. The aim of the scheme is to ensure consumers know that the fish and shellfish they are buying comes from a traceable source and at the same time support their local fishing industry. The registration of Buyers and Sellers scheme was launched in the UK in 2005 and since the introduction of the scheme, representatives of the industry have acknowledged the positive impact it has had on compliance by providing greater transparency, improved cross checking of fish landings data and contribution to reduced levels of black landings. Businesses that deal in first sale fish, such as fish merchants, restaurateurs and fish fryers have been keen to promote the fact that they are registered in the scheme in order to reassure customers that their fish comes from a traceable source.
Who is affected by this?
For the purposes of these requirements first sale fish is defined as fish being marketed for the first time. Anyone who buys fish directly from a fishing vessel on the Isle of Man will be required to register as a buyer, including processors, pubs, restaurants, fishmongers, and vessel owners who buy fish from other vessels for bait. Businesses that buy or sell fish at first sale are split into 2 categories:
- A buyer is someone (an individual, partnership, company or corporate body) who buys first sale fish direct from a vessel or agent (i.e. other than by competitive bidding from a registered seller in a designated auction site).
- A seller is an auction trader (an individual, partnership, company or corporate body) who sells first sale fish by competitive bidding at a designated auction site in the IoM.
Furthermore once registered:
- Registered buyers (individuals, partnerships, corporate bodies or companies) who buy first sale fish direct from a vessel must complete a buyer's sales note within 24 hours of acquiring the information for each sale and submit it to DEFA.
- Registered sellers (those who purchase first sale fish by competitive bidding at a designated auction site) must complete a seller's sales note within 24 hours of the sale and submit it to DEFA.
Application forms and guidance
Downloadable forms for registering as a Buyer or Seller of fish as well as further guidance are available by clicking on the links below:
- RBS IOM 1 - Application for registered status as a buyer or seller of first sale fish in the IOM
- RBS IOM 2 - Explanatory leaflet: Applying to be a registered buyer or seller of first sale fish in the IOM
- RBS IOM 3 - Application for designation of premises as an auction site in the IOM
- RBS IOM 4 - Explanatory leaflet: Designation of premises as an auction site in the IOM
- RBS IOM 5 – Application for access to online electronic sales note system
- Downloadable paper sales note
Further guidance on how to register:
- Registering buyers of first sale fish – Question and answer factsheet
- Completion of sales notes – policy and operational guide
Online register
You can search to find out if premises are designated as an auction site or if an individual or company is a registered buyer or seller of first sale fish. Search by name, applicant type, or registration/designation number if known.
If the person or company you are looking for is not listed please email fisheries@gov.im or telephone us on (01624) 685857 or fax on (01624) 685851.
- Online register (on fishregister website)
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