Development agency 'should help Scottish aquaculture grow'

Scottish Government development agency Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) should take a strategic role in helping Scotland’s aquaculture industry to grow, according to a report by economic research consultancy Ekosgen.

The report, commissioned by HIE, recommended that aquaculture, offshore renewables, and marine environmental services were three “blue economy” sectors where HIE could make most impact.

“They are not simply the sectors with the biggest existing footprint, they reflect where the Highlands and Islands has a particular advantage that will lever significant opportunities,” wrote Ekosgen.

Enabler for processing

Aquaculture plays a key role in Scotland’s internationalisation activity and would be an enabler to develop more high value seafood processing in the region.

“Aquaculture in Scotland is arguably at a pivotal moment, with substantial opportunities to develop finfish, shellfish and seaweed production. Aquaculture is a key part of HIE’s support of the Food and Drink sector and ongoing leadership from HIE will be critical during this period, with links development of seaweed cultivation, marine biotechnology and marine carbon sequestration.”

Read the full report here and an executive summary here.