NFU Scotland has warned that tariff suspensions on a range of imported food products could have unintended consequences for Scottish food producers and undermine long-term food security.
Responding to the UK Government's Call for Input on goods being considered for cost-of-living tariff suspensions, the Union said it recognises the pressures facing consumers but cautioned against policies that prioritise cheaper imports at the expense of domestic food production.
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While the products under consideration are not generally produced in the UK, NFU Scotland highlighted concerns that some could displace Scottish produce further along the supply chain. The Union pointed to potential impacts on Scotland's soft fruit, potato, cereals and oilseed sectors, all of which are already operating in challenging economic conditions.
NFU Scotland President Andrew Connon said:
"We recognise the need to support consumers through ongoing cost-of-living pressures, but food policy cannot be driven solely by the pursuit of cheaper imports.
"Our concern is not simply about these individual tariff suspensions. It is about the wider direction of travel. Scottish farmers and crofters are already facing rising costs, increasing regulation and significant market uncertainty. Policies that encourage greater reliance on imports risk undermining confidence and reducing investment in domestic production."
In its submission, NFU Scotland stressed that domestic food production is becoming increasingly important in a world facing climate instability, geopolitical tensions and supply chain disruption.
The Union also warned that reducing the value of food through import policy risks sending the wrong signal at a time when governments are asking farmers and crofters to invest in food production, climate action and environmental delivery.
NFU Scotland is calling on the UK Government to ensure future tariff and trade decisions fully consider their impact on domestic food production, food security and rural economies.
Mr Connon added:
"Food security starts with a strong domestic farming sector. The lowest-cost option today may not be the most resilient option tomorrow. Government must ensure that decisions taken in the name of affordability do not weaken our ability to produce food here at home in the future."
The Union also reiterated its call for greater scrutiny of food imports, stronger country-of-origin labelling and a commitment that future tariff measures will not place Scottish producers at a competitive disadvantage.
Notes to editors:
- A photograph of Andrew Connon is attached.
- A copy of the NFUS Submission is available here
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