Fish and shellfish markets already crippled under Brexit strain

Scottish seafood processors were already facing uncertainty before the coronavirus pandemic, with Brexit potentially removing their largest export market.

The vast majority of the fish and shellfish landed or grown in Scotland is traditionally exported, mostly to the EU.

The new funding announced for processors yesterday came alongside news of steps to encourage growth in the domestic market.

Businesses applying for support from the new Scottish Seafood Business Resilience Fund must meet “relevant criteria” – further details of which are to be published in the coming days.

A mix of grants, up to the revised permitted state aid level of 120,000 euros (about £105,000), and loans will be available.

Scottish Seafood Association (SSA) chief executive Jimmy Buchan said: “We obviously welcome the funding package announced today by the Scottish Government as a measure of its intent to support the sector at this time of need.

“SSA members are keen to learn more of the detail about how the scheme will operate, particularly the eligibility criteria, and we look forward to engaging with officials on that in the coming days.”

Seafood Scotland interim head Donna Fordyce said: “Following the Scottish Government’s recent announcement of financial aid for the fishing sector, this package of support for the wider seafood industry is critical to its survival and very much welcome.

“We have spent the last two weeks speaking to seafood businesses all over Scotland, and these measures are just what they have been asking for.

“With most export routes almost entirely closed off and around 80% of shellfish and seafood normally destined for international markets, the industry is currently on its knees.

“This package will help many seafood businesses live beyond Covid-19.”