Regulatory reform needed to boost Scottish seafood exports
Scottish salmon farming leaders are backing the UK Chancellor’s growth-focused regulatory approach, which urges Scotland to capitalise on seafood exports for economic recovery.
Salmon Scotland, the trade body representing the UK’s largest food export, has welcomed Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ plans to prioritise economic growth over regulatory burdens.
“We support better regulation, not less, but regulators must also drive economic growth. Taxes fund public services, and growth makes that happen,” said Tavish Scott, chief executive of Salmon Scotland.
Red tape
Mr Scott highlighted the barriers facing the sector, including excessive red tape that limits job creation, investment and innovation in rural and coastal communities.
With Scotland’s GDP growth at just 0.1% in the third quarter of 2024, compared to 0.5% the previous quarter, he called for urgent reform to close the gap with the rest of the UK.
Salmon farming contributes GB£760 million annually to Scotland’s economy, supporting 12,500 jobs and driving seafood exports worldwide. Scott argued that with an updated regulatory framework, the sector could reach GB£1 billion in economic value within a few years, boosting local communities and public services.
As Chancellor Reeves prepares to meet with key regulators, including the Environment Agency and Ofgem, Salmon Scotland urges the Scottish Government to adopt a similar approach.
“The ambition is there,” said Mr Scott. “Ministers must act swiftly to unlock the potential of salmon farming.”
He said that with a focus on growth-driven regulation, Scotland’s seafood exports could help lead the UK’s post-Brexit, post-Covid economic recovery.
