UNITED KINGDOM

Aquaculture has a significant and growing role in the United Kingdom's economy and food supply. With its extensive coastlines, temperate climate, and rich marine biodiversity, the UK offers ideal conditions for the industry.  

The industry is primarily concentrated in Scotland, with its pristine lochs and coastal waters. Other regions such as Wales, Northern Ireland, and the south and south-west coast of England also contribute to the sector. 

Shellfish farming, particularly of mussels and oysters, is another vital component of the UK's aquaculture industry.  

Seaweed farming is an emerging and promising sector. Seaweeds, such as kelp, are cultivated for their nutritional value, use in food products, pharmaceuticals, and as biostimulants in agriculture.  

Finfish aquaculture includes trout (in saltwater or freshwater)and a number of other species grown to stock rivers and lakes for sport fishing. 

Salmon farming is, however, the most prominent and economically significant part of the UK's aquaculture industry. Scotland is the third-largest producer of farmed Atlantic salmon in the world, following Norway and Chile. 

Salmon is, by value, the UK’s favourite fish and demand continues to grow. It is also – despite additional red tape following Brexit – the UK’s number one food export.