The Scottish Seafood Association (SSA) and Scottish Fishermen's Federation have issued statements on what they term the "urgent need to safeguard the future of fishing and processing communities." 

The fishing and supply chain sectors are "vital to the economic and cultural fabric of coastal regions, and they rely on government policies that ensure they have the necessary access to harvest and process fish," said the SSA.

The SSA has serious concerns that the government will overburden business with taxes resulting in the stagnation of any growth, it said.

Some 55% of UK companies are planning to raise prices in the next three months, with labor costs the highest driver, according to a new survey of 5,000 firms by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC).

A fair and balanced strategy is required to ensure food security, it said; one that prioritizes sustainable practices and the well-being of coastal communities. "These communities depend on seafood being landed and processed locally, where skills are developed and passed on, thereby invigorating both the circular and wider economy."

Access to fishing opportunities is the first step in the supply chain, and the SSA wholeheartedly supports the fishermen, it said.

"However, it is equally essential that fish harvested can be processed here in Scotland and distributed across the UK and to wider global markets. This is crucial for the prosperity of coastal communities; therefore, the SSA calls upon sitting governments to protect the heritage and future of these communities by ensuring that policies are put in place to safeguard the future of vital industries for future generations."

Following the UK Chancellor's autumn statement, 63% of firms cited rising taxes as a worry, compared with 48% in Q3 -- the highest level on record. Concern about inflation and interest rates remains at a similar level to Q3.

"The future of food security is dependent on reinvestment in new innovative robotics and automation that will safeguard jobs and upskill people who work in the processing sector," said the SSA.

"The processing sector has demonstrated its critical importance, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, by providing healthy food for the nation and playing a crucial role in the supply chain. It is essential it is a profitable sector capable of investing in its people and communities, contributing significantly to the economic prosperity of the nation."

SSA CEO Jimmy Buchan added it was crucial that efforts to preserve jobs and the long-term sustainability of businesses remain a high priority.

"The livelihoods of countless families depend on the future direction of our industry. Together, we can ensure that our rich maritime heritage can thrive for both onshore and offshore. It is the hard work and endeavors of those in the supply chain that put food on our tables every day."

The SSA called on the government to "commit to a sustainable future for our seafood sector and to recognize the essential role it plays in our economy and society."