Up to £23 million in government funding will be available for UK seafood exporters who have been most adversely affected by the Covid-19 pandemic and the recent challenges in exporting to the EU.
The government recognises that the fishing sector has had to adjust to significant new requirements since 1 January 2021, at a time when the industry is already facing lower market prices and demand due to the pandemic. As seafood is a perishable product, it is essential that businesses can export quickly.
Fishing export businesses who can evidence a genuine loss in exporting fish and shellfish to the EU will be able to apply for support. Administered by the Marine Management Organisation, financial support will be paid retrospectively to cover losses incurred since 1 January 2021. The scheme is targeted at small and medium sized businesses, and the maximum claim available to individual operators will be £100,000.
In addition to funding, Defra and HMRC will also be offering targeted, proactive and hands on support to fisheries exporters to help them adapt to new export processes. This includes a new training package and focussed workshop sessions.
Separately, the Prime Minister has also committed to providing a £100m fund to help modernise fishing fleets, the fish processing industry, and rejuvenate a historic and proud industry in the UK, on top of the £32m that will replace EU funding this year.
More details will be available shortly on eligibility criteria for funding and will be published on this website.
Anthony says "I continue to work with businesses in the fishing sector, but if I can be of any further assistance please do not hesitate to contact me. Email Anthony.mangnall.mp@parliament.uk or telephone 0207 219 5579."
