$13m fishing row goes on

Japanese fishing giant Maruha is today expected to close its arguments in a multi-million-dollar case against its former business bedmate, Nelson-based fishing company Amaltal.

The long-running battle between the two will resume next week when Amaltal begins its defence.

Maruha claims to have been duped by Amaltal over fishing quota and tax savings when the pair were partners in a joint venture, called Amaltal Taiyo, from 1985 to 1991.

The statement said the company was pleading breach of contract, deceit and breach of obligations of fidelity and good faith owed to it from Amaltal.

Maruha is claiming more than $13 million, plus interest, for the alleged breaches of contract.

Last September Amaltal counterclaimed against Maruha for between $50 million and $65 million.