Firms invited to register interest in international aquaculture show
13th April 2017
Businesses across Scotland engaged in the aquaculture sector are being encouraged to register their interest in attending a major international trade event in Norway by 21 April.
Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) is leading the Scottish delegation, in partnership with Scottish Development International (SDI), to create the first Scottish Pavilion at the Aqua Nor technology trade exhibition in Trondheim in August.
Aqua Nor is held every two years. In 2015 it attracted more than 20,000 delegates and 550 exhibitors from 27 countries.
Aquaculture is a priority sector for HIE and of growing importance to Scotland's economy. In the Highlands and Islands the sector is deemed crucial to rural economies and the resilience of many island and coastal communities. HIE is keen to present a strong Scottish profile at the event.
Elaine Jamieson, HIE's head of food and drink, said:
"This is an excellent opportunity to showcase the strength and ambition of Scotland's aquaculture industry and in particular for businesses in the sector supply chain to reach a global audience. We would encourage all firms engaged in or supplying the aquaculture industry to consider attending the event and to register their interest with us by Friday 21 April."
Aqua Nor takes place in Trondheim, Norway, on 15-18 August. The world’s major aquaculture nations will be present, either as exhibitors, visitors, or in official delegations. They include Norway, Chile, Australia, USA, Denmark, Sweden, Canada, China, Taiwan, France and Spain.
The focus of the Scottish Pavilion will be on supporting Scottish companies who are exploring international markets and exhibiting their products and services to buyers, distributors or partners. All companies in the Scottish delegation will be included in marketing and networking activities.
Aqua Nor represents a significant trade opportunity for businesses in the aquaculture supply chain. This covers breeding, feeding, biomass control, construction and operation of cages, nets, safety equipment and well boats. It also includes fish handling and veterinary medicine.
Aquaculture is estimated to contribute as much as £1.8 billion turnover a year to the Scottish economy and support around 8,000 jobs. The Aquaculture Growth Strategy 2030, ‘A Strategic Plan for Farming Scotland’s Seas’, demonstrates the industry’s ambition to increase this to £3.6 billion and 18,000 jobs by 2030.