SALMON SCOTLAND WELCOMES THE SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT’S VISION FOR THE FUTURE OF OUR SEAS

Salmon Scotland welcomes the Scottish Government’s vision for the future of our seas. Salmon Scotland has yesterday welcomed the Scottish Government’s vision for the future of our seas.
The Blue Economy Vision for Scotland was published by the Scottish Government yesterday and contains a number of key aims and ambitions. These include ensuring having innovative, productive and competitive marine sectors, as well as thriving and resilient communities.
One key outcome is that Scotland is “a global leader in healthy, quality, sustainably harvested and farmed Blue Foods, for our own population and beyond”.
Tavish Scott, Chief Executive of Salmon Scotland, said:
“Salmon plays a vital role in the Blue Economy of Scotland and we are delighted the Scottish Government has not only recognised the role it plays but is committed to backing the sustainable growth of the sector in the years to come.”
He added:
“Farmed salmon is not only the UK’s top food export but is one of the healthiest, locally-sourced proteins around.
“Salmon producers also play a vital role in maintaining and supporting communities in some of Scotland’s most remote areas.
“We are keen to work with the government to ensure our members continue to get the support they need to ensure Scotland’s Blue Economy reaches its full potential.”
The Scottish Government’s Blue Economy for Scotland vision can be found here.
Fresh salmon accounts for more than £500 million worth of fish sales across the UK retail market annually. This represents 48 per cent of the overall fish market, making it the most valuable single product in this category. The product is also exported to more than 50 countries.
The salmon sector adds more than £640 million to the economy every year. At the same time, it spends £370 million, supporting over 3,600 suppliers across Scotland. More than 2,500 people are directly employed in salmon farming throughout the country.
The Scottish Salmon Producers’ Organisation (SSPO) changed its name to Salmon Scotland on November 1, 2021.