The Scottish Government said the scheme is designed to support farms that have been hit hardest by the ongoing crisis in the pork market.
According to government estimates, Scotland’s independent pig sector has already lost around 15% of its sow herd since the beginning of 2026, while four producers have exited the industry. Officials warn that this poses a serious threat to the long-term future of the sector and to the Prime Scottish Pork brand.
The decline in pig prices has been driven by a combination of weak market conditions across the European Union, disruptions in meat processing, seasonal capacity constraints at processing plants, and continued pressure throughout supply chains. Lower pig prices in the EU have also continued to weigh on the UK market.
Under the new support scheme, eligible producers will be able to claim compensation for the difference between the price they received for their pigs and 85% of the Standard Pig Price (SPP), the average UK deadweight pig price.
The scheme will apply retrospectively to losses incurred from March 2026 onwards and is expected to remain in place at least until August.
Scotland’s Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Gillian Martin, said the pig sector is facing an exceptionally difficult period and stressed that the government is committed to helping the farms most at risk.
According to Martin, the funding will help protect jobs, support Scotland’s pork supply chain, strengthen the Prime Scottish Pork brand, and safeguard the production of high-quality, locally produced pork raised under high animal welfare standards.
Roderic Bruce, Scotland Board Director of the United Pig Cooperative, welcomed the government’s decision. He noted that while the funding cannot fully offset the severe financial losses caused by the current low market prices, it will provide much-needed relief and may help some producers remain in business until market conditions improve.
Source: PigUA.info, based on foodagribusiness.world