Scottish salmon producers and supply chain companies have written to candidates in the upcoming Scottish Parliament election, calling for regulatory reform to support investment, jobs and export growth.
The joint letter, coordinated by industry body Salmon Scotland and backed by 60 businesses, argues that lengthy consenting processes are placing Scotland at a competitive disadvantage versus other salmon-producing countries.
Signatories urged the next Scottish Government to implement recommendations made in a 2022 independent review led by Professor Russel Griggs, including the creation of a one-stop shop for aquaculture regulation and a 10-year framework for the sector.
According to the group, Scotland’s salmon industry contributes almost £1 billion annually to the economy and supports around 11,000 jobs, many in rural and coastal areas.
In the Highlands, the sector contributes £307 million and supports 3,530 jobs, it said.
The industry body added that average salaries in the sector are £44,500, around 16 percent above the national average.
Nearly £200 million has been invested since 2018 in innovation aimed at improving fish health and welfare, according to the letter.
The sector said faster decision-making and a simpler regulatory system would help unlock further growth and provide greater certainty for investment.
Scottish salmon was the UK’s largest food export in 2025, with international sales of £828 million, while domestic sales were valued at £1.5 billion, according to the group.
Tavish Scott said delays and bureaucracy were making it harder for companies to invest, expand and compete internationally, adding that new market opportunities were emerging in countries including India and South Korea.