Business and Policy August 2026 – Policy Brief

Scottish Pig Producers Support Scheme 

Scotland’s independent pig producers are set to receive a £2 million emergency support package after months of falling pig prices left many farms selling pigs below the cost of production. The scheme, which opened for applications on 15 July, will compensate eligible independent producers for part of the gap between the price they received and 85% of the Standard Pig Price (SPP), with payments covering losses from 1 March to 31 August 2026 (based on slaughter date). The Scottish Government says the package is needed because weak European markets, processing disruption and ongoing supply chain pressures have driven prices down, leading to an estimated 15% reduction in breeding sows in Scotland’s independent sector this year and prompting some producers to leave the industry. While industry groups have welcomed the funding as a much-needed lifeline, they stress it is only a short-term measure and that fairer market returns will be essential to secure the long-term future of Scotland’s pig sector. The closing date for applications is 15 September 2026. 

Scheme information: £2 million for independent pig producers – gov.scot 

How to apply: Scottish Pig Producers Support Scheme: how to apply – gov.scot 

Contact email: pigproducers.support@gov.scot  

 

New Calls to Boost Scotland’s Wildfire Response 

As wildfires become a more frequent threat, farming organisations are urging the Scottish Government to strengthen the country’s ability to tackle wildfires after a series of large blazes. For farmers and crofters, the issue goes well beyond damaged moorland – wildfires can destroy grazing, woodland, wildlife habitats, fencing and infrastructure, while also putting livestock and people at risk. The Wildfires Strategic Action Plan was published in March 2026 setting out a coordinated approach to wildfires, but farming organisations are calling for a dedicated aerial wildfire response in Scotland, alongside greater investment in prevention and faster emergency response to safeguard farming businesses and the wider countryside. 

 

Scotland Bans Glue Traps 

It is now illegal in Scotland to use, supply or possess glue traps designed to catch vertebrate animals, including rodents. The new rules were introduced on 1 July 2026 under the Wildlife Management and Muirburn (Scotland) Act 2024 and aim to improve animal welfare by banning a pest control method widely criticised for causing prolonged suffering and for trapping non-target wildlife such as birds and hedgehogs. Anyone found breaking the law could face a fine of up to £40,000 or up to 12 months in prison. For farmers, the change means any rodent glue traps still held on the farm, in workshops or vehicles must no longer be kept or used. 

Cracks Appear over the Future of Brown Eggs 

As supermarkets look to cut their carbon footprint, the future demand for white and brown eggs is becoming less clear. Some supermarkets plan to switch their own-brand range to white eggs, saying white hens eat less feed, lay for longer and produce eggs with a lower carbon footprint than brown eggs, while also offering welfare benefits. However, other supermarkets have no plans to follow suit, instead committing to continue offering brown eggs alongside white. For Scottish egg producers, the split highlights how retailer sustainability targets could influence future flock choices, breed selection and supply contracts. During the late 1970s consumers expressed a preference for brown eggs in the UK and, until fairly recently, the British industry has produced almost 100 per cent brown shelled eggs, but white eggs are definitely becoming more common again. Any wider shift will depend on shopper acceptance as much as retailer policy. For now, producers are being advised to keep a close eye on market signals before making long-term investment or flock decisions. 

 

Heather Stuart, heather.stuart@sac.co.uk

 

Relevant Scottish Government Publications and Consultations 

Publications	Publication Date
Avian influenza (bird flu): how to spot and report the disease	Updated 22 July 2026
Swine fever: how to spot and report the disease	Updated 25 June 2026
Bluetongue: how to spot and report the disease	Updated 09 July 2026
SEPA Water scarcity levels and reports	Regularly updated

Consultations	Date
Island Resilience Fund 2026-2027 Online Sessions	16, 21, 22 & 28 July 2026

 

Key Dates

Date	Actions
31 August 2026	Deadline for completion of the June Agricultural Census 2026
30 September 2026	Future Farming Investment Scheme 2025 - Evidence submission deadline extended until midnight on 30 September 2026
1 June – 9 September 2026	Bluetongue movement restrictions: 1 June - 9 September 2026
15 September 2026	Closing date for applications to the Scottish Pig Producers Support Scheme