The first meeting of the Aquaculture Industry Leadership Group (AILG) was attended by rural economy secretary, Fergus Ewing.
Looking at how the sector can grow sustainability until 2030, the secretary joined the inaugural meeting to oversee the future of Scotland’s aquaculture industry.
Fergus Ewing said: “I was delighted to attend the inaugural meeting of the Aquaculture Industry Leadership Group.”
He added: “The industry deserves credit for taking the initiative to establish this group. It marks an important step for the future of Scotland’s aquaculture industry and I look forward to working with all parties towards the goal of creating continued sustainable growth across this key industry.”
AILG members examined opportunities to help sustain growth, particularly in rural and coastal areas, boost long-term employment and foster industry growth.
It focused on subjects ranging from marketing to regulation, skills, innovation and industry financing.
Mr Ewing concluded: “I am confident that the group can become an engine of expertise, supporting and mentoring emerging ideas and setting a strategic framework for achieving the aspirations of the 2030 Vision through balanced and stable growth.”
He welcomed the aspirations to support an industry potentially worth over £2bn to Scotland’s economy, whilst recognising the need to address the associated biological and environmental challenges.
