The first steps on an initiative to improve trade opportunities for Scottish seafood in the United States are being made today as representatives of catching and processing sectors join their counterparts from the salmon industry at a special roundtable meeting convened by US ambassador to the UK.
US ambassador Woody Johnson met senior seafood industry players during a visit to the new Peterhead fish market in August and declared himself impressed with the quality of produce on show.
On his return to London, he invited representatives of the Scottish Fishermen’s Federation, the Scottish Seafood Association, the Scottish Pelagic Processors’ Association, Peterhead Port Authority, Lunar Fishing Company, Don Fishing Company and Scottish Salmon Producers’ Organisation to attend tomorrow’s gathering.
‘The fishing industry stands on the cusp of a new era, with the potential for UK boats to be landing much more of the quality fish that already swim in our waters,’ said SFF chief executive Bertie Armstrong.
‘While we remain unconvinced by the argument that this will have a detrimental impact on our existing trading arrangements, we have a fantastic opportunity to open up new markets. Innovations in technology and transport mean that the quality of seafood produce can be maintained,’ he commented.
‘We are extremely grateful to the ambassador for calling this roundtable. He was genuinely enthused by what he saw on his visit to Peterhead and is taking a close personal interest in supporting our endeavours. It is time for us to look beyond Brexit and seize the opportunities on offer. The USA love our salmon, and we know the potential market for other great seafood is there to be grasped.’
