Scotland''s salmon farming industry and wild fish organisations have agreed to enter a facilitated discussion process to support the development of a positive way ahead for both sectors.
Environment Minister Stewart Stevenson said:
"Scotland is blessed with some of the best salmon fishing rivers in the world and has an international reputation that draws visitors from near and far. We are also known for producing premium quality farmed salmon, and the aquaculture industry makes a key economic contribution, particularly in fragile rural communities.
"I believe that both sectors can exist and develop in harmony with each other, and I am therefore greatly encouraged that both wild fish interests and the salmon farming industry have agreed to this new process with a view to working together more constructively in the future."
Scott Landsburgh, Chief Executive of the Scottish Salmon Producers' Organisation, which represents the salmon farming industry, said:
"We are pleased that the Minister has taken a lead in establishing these discussions. We welcome the recognition by all parties in the process that salmon farming plays a vital part in Scotland's rural economy and has a long term future. We look forward to joining with our colleagues in the wild fisheries sector in these discussions."
The parties will have an opportunity to meet with an independent facilitator shortly to discuss how the process might work and what outcomes should be sought.
Aquaculture accounts for almost 40% of the value of Scotland's food exports, with production worth around £434m per year. Alongside Norway and Chile, Scotland is a top three global producer of farmed Atlantic salmon.
