Investment in Scotland's seafood industry
Opportunities
Scotland has 16,000 kilometres of beautiful, clean coastline. There are more than 2000 Scottish fishing boats, making landings totalling more than 440,000 tonnes per year.
Further added-value activity takes place through new product development, while opportunities also continue to arise in areas such as the transport of live seafood and the development of under-utilised species.
Other areas of opportunity include:
- Farming fish species to reduce supply shortages
- Inward investment in the form of partnerships, joint ventures and strategic alliances
- Developing niche opportunities based on supplying high-value products to discerning customers Identification and development of new markets for langoustines, mussels and other Scottish seafood products
- The growth of the health-enhancing foods sector – such as Omega 3 oil rich fish
Research, innovation and technology
Fishing has always been a big part of Scottish culture and has shaped many of Scotland’s communities. For many Scottish fishermen, fishing is not just a job – it’s a way of life.
The passion found in the workforce of the Scottish seafood industry means that sustainability and responsible fishing practises are focused on in order to keep the industry alive in the face of industry challenges.
That’s why, in tough times, members of the Scottish industry are keen to take advantage of leading-edge marine research, innovation and technology. A multitude of indigenous businesses means that Scotland is home to one of the most sizable food and drink clusters in Europe.
The seafood industry plays a crucial role in this success story, making the most of the natural resources surrounding Scotland.