NFU Scotland has responded to the Scottish Government’s 2025-26 Programme for Government, calling for the promises set out for the rural sector to be delivered with clarity, urgency and farmer-led focus.
While the First Minister’s announcement contained no new or unexpected policies for the agricultural sector, the Union welcomed confirmation of continued investment in rural support, food production and the environment - while urging ministers to move swiftly from vision to implementation.
President Andrew Connon said:
“The Programme for Government confirms what we already knew - but farmers and crofters now need to see delivery, not delay.
“Reformed direct support must be the Government’s urgent priority. We need clarity on how schemes will work and when they’ll apply. Without certainty, there’s no confidence to plan or invest. With it, we can deliver for food production, climate, nature and the rural communities that depend on active farming and crofting.”
The Government confirmed that the long-awaited Rural Support Plan will be published, alongside progress on direct support reform, investment in food processing, crofting law reform and the Future Farming Investment Scheme, including capital support for new entrants.
NFUS has welcomed these themes, but warned that delivery must be shaped by those working in the sector - and backed by a regulatory framework that supports viability, not just compliance.
On environment and biodiversity, the Programme sets out targets for woodland and peatland expansion, further rounds of the Nature Restoration Fund and new biodiversity baselining requirements.
“Scottish farmers are already playing a central role in climate and biodiversity delivery,” added Mr Connon. “But this must be recognised as part of a working rural economy. Future support schemes must continue to value food production alongside environmental outcomes - not trade one off against the other.”
NFUS also acknowledged commitments to improving land ownership transparency. We welcome agrifood investment, and support for agrifood exports they are vital enablers for a thriving rural economy.
“Scotland’s farmers and crofters are ready to lead. Government must now match that readiness with clear timelines, streamlined funding access, and practical tools that support real businesses. NFU Scotland stands ready to work with Ministers and officials to get this right.”
Notes to editors:
- The Scottish Government’s 2025–26 Programme for Government is available in full here.
Ends
Contact Carly Ross on 07860 642826