THE NATIONAL Farner’s Union of Scotland, (NFU), has warned that increasing levels of imported food entering the UK market could put further pressure on Scottish farmers and weaken the country’s long-term food security.
The farming organisation raised concerns at the Royal Highland Show, saying future decisions around trade and imports must consider the impact on domestic producers already dealing with rising costs, regulation and market uncertainty.
According to NFU Scotland’s ShelfWatch data, food imports have increased by five per cent compared to last year, with pork imports rising by 11 per cent and soft fruits increasing by 19 per cent.
The union said the figures highlighted the need to ensure Scottish farmers and crofters are able to compete fairly and continue investing in domestic food production.
NFU Scotland Vice President Duncan Macalister said: “Scottish farmers and crofters produce food to some of the highest standards in the world, but we are increasingly concerned about the volume of imports entering the UK market and the impact that could have on domestic production.
“Government must ensure that decisions on imports do not undermine Scottish producers or erode confidence in the future of our industry.
“Food security starts with a strong domestic farming sector.”
NFU Scotland said concerns remain around changing global trade patterns and the possibility of additional products entering the UK market as a result of international trade decisions.
The organisation warned that increased competition from imported food could discourage investment at a time when many farming businesses are already under financial pressure.
Mr Macalister added: “Our members face increasing regulation, higher production standards and rising costs.
“They are rightly asking why they should invest in the future if government policy is making it harder for them to compete. “Every tonne of imported food that displaces Scottish production reduces opportunities for domestic businesses, weakens rural economies and undermines confidence across the sector.”
The union said the impact would not only be felt on farms, but across Scotland’s wider food and drink industry, which supports thousands of jobs.
Mr Macalister said: “This isn’t just a farming issue.
“If we weaken domestic production, we weaken the foundations of industries that contribute billions to Scotland’s economy and support thousands of jobs.”
NFU Scotland is calling on the UK Government to provide greater scrutiny of food and grain imports, ensure trade agreements do not leave Scottish producers at a disadvantage, and strengthen country-of-origin labelling.
The organisation said clearer labelling would help consumers make informed decisions when shopping.
Mr Macalister added: “Consumers deserve transparency.
Shoppers should be able to see clearly where their food comes from and make informed decisions.
“Our research shows that 71 per cent of Scottish consumers are more likely to buy a product if it features the Saltire on the packaging, demonstrating the strong support that exists for Scottish produce when people can easily identify it.
“This is not about stopping imports or closing markets. It is about ensuring imports do not come at the expense of domestic production and that consumers have clear information about where their food comes from.
“Scotland needs a resilient farming sector, a secure food supply and policies that support domestic production. Future decisions on imports must reflect that reality.”
