Agriculture after Brexit (farming and food production)

The UK left the European Union on 31 January 2020. This process is often known as 'Brexit'.

The UK Government and the EU have now agreed a deal on their future relationship. From 1 January 2021 this new relationship with the EU will begin.

There will be effects on some areas of life in Scotland. This may include changes to farming and food production, and the wider rural economy.

The Scottish Government has a five year plan to make sure farmers, crofters and land users are provided with stability, certainty and simplicity.

This plan will make sure financial support is still available for:

• active farming
• food production
• environmental improvements
• forestry
• rural development

If you're worried about how leaving the EU might affect your business, you can get advice from a number of sources. Find out more information for businesses after Brexit.

The Royal Scottish Agricultural Benevolent Institute (RSABI) is a charity that can also provide help and support for agricultural workers and their families who may be stressed or worried about their current situation. The RSABI site gives information on how you can contact them for help.

The UK Government's Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs has updated guidance on:

• food labelling
• organic food labelling
• animal breeding programmes
• making and marketing fertilisers

Food Standards Scotland has also published guidance on preparing your business for Brexit. It covers topics like health and identification marks and importing high-risk food and animal feed.

Further advice

If you need more information or guidance on farming and food production, the following contacts may be able to help: