The inaugural meeting of the Aquaculture Industry Leadership Group (AILG) in Inverness discussed challenges and opportunities for the sector, looking at how the sector can grow sustainably over the long-term to 2030.
AILG members examined opportunities to help sustain growth, particularly in rural and coastal areas, boost long-term employment and foster industry growth. It focussed on subjects ranging from marketing to regulation, skills, innovation and industry financing.
Mr Ewing also welcomed the aspirations to support an industry potentially worth over £2 billion to Scotland’s economy, whilst recognising the need to address the associated biological and environmental challenges.
Mr Ewing said: “I was delighted to attend the inaugural meeting of the Aquaculture Industry Leadership Group.
“The industry deserves credit for taking the initiative to establish this group. It marks an important step for the future of Scotland’s aquaculture industry and I look forward to working with all parties towards the goal of creating continued sustainable growth across this key industry.
“I am confident that the group can become an engine of expertise, supporting and mentoring emerging ideas and setting a strategic framework for achieving the aspirations of the 2030 Vision through balanced and stable growth.”
