£1 million export package launched to promote UK seafood overseas / UK Seafood Fund funding opportunities closing soon 

The UK Government announced on 7 May a £1 million package to boost seafood exports and promote the industry’s high-quality produce overseas. 

Global exports of UK seafood amounted to over £1.6 billion in 2021 and this investment is aimed at growing this even further. 

The Seafood Exports package will:

• Identify new overseas buyers and connect them with UK seafood companies
• Promote UK seafood at international events
• Increase expertise on British seafood produce in our Embassies and Consulates overseas

The £1 million investment is the final part of the £100m UK Seafood Fund. The UK Seafood Fund also includes the £24m science and innovation scheme which is helping to enhance the sustainability of the sector through data collection, research and innovation; at least £65m available to improve infrastructure and strengthen supply chains; and up to £10m for skills and training to generate new jobs and upskill fishermen.

The UK Seafood Fund £65 million Infrastructure Scheme is closing for applications on 24 May 2022. The scheme will fund projects that build capability across the UK seafood sector supply chain through investment in:

• capability at ports and harbours, in processing, aquaculture or onshore
• the use of renewable energy
• the social and economic welfare of coastal communities 

A second round of Fisheries Industry Science Partnerships (FISP) funding is also open for applications until midday 16 May. The FISP scheme shares knowledge of fisheries and aquaculture by funding data collection and research to support sustainable fisheries management. 

For more information on the Seafood Exports Package and details on how to apply for the Infrastructure Scheme and FISP Round 2 Scheme visit the UK Seafood Fund gov.uk page.