CROFTING GIVES £588M TO SCOTTISH ECONOMY REVEALS REPORT
A report commissioned by the Crofting Commission, and prepared by BiGGAR Economics, has revealed that crofting generates a staggering £588 million in Gross Value Added (GVA) annually and sustains an impressive 30,385 jobs across Scotland.
The Value of Crofting, highlights that 80% of the wealth created by crofting is retained within the crofting counties, illustrating its role in revitalising rural communities.
“This report confirms what we've always known: crofting is a vital part of Scotland's economic fabric,” said Malcolm Mathieson, Chair of the Crofting Commission. “It's not just about agriculture; it's about creating sustainable livelihoods and thriving communities in some of the most beautiful but challenging parts of the Highlands and Islands. These figures clearly show us that the benefits to rural communities, if crofting regulation were to be extended to all of Scotland, could benefit the whole country."
The report highlights crofting's ability to sustain communities and showcases the sector's resilience, adaptability, and its significant potential for future growth. The sector supports 30,385 jobs across Scotland and 80% of the wealth generated by crofting stays within the crofting counties.
“The report also shows that crofting plays a critical role in environmental stewardship, cultural preservation and the fight against climate change,”
all of which we plan to use as basis for future research,” said Gary Campbell, Chief Executive of the Crofting Commission.
Crofting also delivers exceptional value for public investment. For every £1 of public funds invested in crofting, an impressive £13 GVA is generated for the Scottish economy, the report says.
