Wishart – ideological opponents biggest threat to salmon farming

Shetland MSP and Scottish Liberal Democrat Beatrice Wishart, in a Scottish Government debate entitled Protecting and Growing Scotland’s Iconic Food and Drink Sector highlighted Shetland’s contribution to the food and drink sector. Stating that “Salmon is Scotland’s iconic fish” Wishart outlined the success and importance of salmon farming in the isles.

The salmon industry employs 2,500 people directly, and around 10,000 through a supply chain that reaches all parts of Scotland. Salmon exports from the Northern Isles and other parts of Scotland contribute millions to the national economy, and there has been significant investment in modernisation and innovation by the industry.

UK Government trade statistics show that 100,000 tonnes of Scottish salmon was exported to 48 countries around the world worth £844m in 2024. Scotland ranks third globally in terms of Atlantic salmon production and produces six per cent of global production.

During the debate Ms Wishart said:

“I have heard directly from salmon farmers of their commitment to the welfare and husbandry of their fish, including from some working in my own constituency in Shetland.

“It is a great success story but there are challenges to salmon farming including rising sea temperatures and jellyfish blooms.

“In my view, however, the biggest threat to salmon farming comes from those who are ideologically opposed to the sector itself.

“Those who would see an end to Scotland’s salmon farming industry would cause devastation to rural and island economies, including Shetland where it employs around 400 people. 

“It ultimately would lead to depopulation and decimate some of the most fragile communities in Scotland.”

Ms Wishart’s full speech can be seen here.