NFU Scotland is urging the Scottish Government to use the 2026–27 Budget to deliver an increase in investment in agriculture, calling for around a £90 million uplift to support growth, resilience and transition across the sector.
As the foundation of Scotland’s £19 billion food and drink industry*, agriculture is a vital economic engine for the country, supporting jobs, driving exports, and enabling the production of high-quality food at home. NFU Scotland warns that without increased support and a continued real-terms cut, the sector cannot meet the growing demands placed upon it, whether in delivering food security, climate and nature targets, or sustainable rural employment.
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NFUS President Andrew Connon said:
“Farming is the first link in a globally renowned food and drink sector. With the right support, we can grow the economy, drive exports, secure food supply chains and deliver on climate and nature goals. But the current funding model isn’t keeping pace with expectations or inflation. This Budget must change that.”
NFU Scotland’s submission also sets out how increased funding will deliver returns for Scotland. Farmers and crofters are not just producers, they are employers, land managers and economic enablers. The return on investment is significant. Every pound invested in agriculture generates around £6 in output, with farms spending millions annually across thousands of local businesses in rural supply chains. Sustaining that economic activity, particularly in fragile and remote areas, requires consistent support.
At the same time, domestic production reduces reliance on imports and prevents the offshoring of Scotland’s environmental responsibilities. With over 70% of Scotland’s land under their care, farmers and crofters are uniquely placed to help meet national climate and biodiversity goals, but they cannot do it alone.
Connon added:
“Investing in farming is not a cost, it’s a catalyst for wider economic, environmental and social return. If Scotland wants food security, climate delivery and rural prosperity, then it must put agriculture at the heart of its economic strategy.”
NFU Scotland’s Key Budget Asks:
- A c£90m uplift to the Agriculture and Rural Economy Budget
- Multi-year funding certainty to unlock long-term investment
- Ring-fencing to protect agriculture budgets from dilution
- Guarantee that at least 70% of funds go to direct support during transition
- Delivery of the £26m Future Farming Investment Scheme
Notes to editors:
- A photograph of NFU Scotland President Andrew Connon is attached.
- NFU Scotland’s full submission is available here.
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Contact Carly Ross on 07860 642826