Scottish Parliament candidates urged to cut salmon farming red tape
Scotland’s salmon sector has written to all Holyrood election candidates, urging the next Scottish Government to cut red tape and support jobs, investment, and export growth.
The joint letter, organised by trade body Salmon Scotland and backed by 60 businesses including producers and supply chain companies, argues red tape is putting the country at a competitive disadvantage.
Salmon Scotland members have also been hosting visits for candidates from across the political spectrum ahead of the May 7 poll.
11,000 jobs
The sector contributes almost £1 billion to the economy each year and is said to support 11,000 jobs across Scotland, with many in rural and coastal communities.
In the Highlands alone, salmon farming contributes £307 million to the economy and supports 3,530 jobs. Average salaries stand at £44,500, around 16% higher than the national average.
Nearly £200 million has been invested in innovation since 2018 to improve fish health and welfare, alongside wider efforts to support sustainable growth.
Protracted consenting
In the letter, signatories state: “The current protracted consenting process places Scottish businesses at a significant disadvantage compared to other producing nations.”
The letter calls on the next Scottish Government to finally implement the recommendations of an independent 2022 report by regulatory expert Professor Russel Griggs, including a one-stop shop for aquaculture and a 10-year regulatory framework.
Cutting delays and simplifying the system would help unlock growth, support jobs, and give businesses the certainty needed to invest.
Salmon Scotland says that with new export opportunities opening up, including India and South Korea, signatories argue Scotland should be making it easier, not harder, for businesses to invest and grow.
The next government now has a clear chance to change course, it adds.
Practical reform
Salmon Scotland chief executive Tavish Scott, who is a former MSP and minister, said: “Scotland has built a world-class salmon sector that supports thousands of jobs and brings significant investment into rural and coastal communities.
“But we cannot take that success for granted. Right now, red tape and delay are making it harder for businesses to invest, expand, and compete internationally at exactly the wrong time.
“With new export opportunities opening up in markets such as India and South Korea, there is a real opportunity to grow further and strengthen our position as the UK’s top food export.
“This election is a moment for candidates to show they understand the value of the sector and the role it plays in supporting communities across the country.
“If Scotland wants jobs, growth, and thriving rural economies, the next Scottish Government must back practical reform that cuts delays and gives businesses the confidence to invest.”
