NFU Scotland has described the Scottish Government’s new Rural Support Plan as an important step in shaping the future of farming and crofting, while warning that long term success will depend on how it is delivered.
The Plan, published on 24 March 2026, sets out the framework for agricultural support from 2026 to 2030 and aims to provide greater clarity on policy direction and funding.
NFU Scotland said the Plan confirms direct support commitments secured in recent years and introduces multi year funding, offering more certainty for farmers and crofters.
The organisation said this stability is critical as businesses plan, invest and adapt to changing economic and environmental pressures.
NFU Scotland President Andrew Connon said:
“This is a significant milestone in moving to a new, domestically designed support system.
“Crucially, it confirms and locks in the direct support commitments we have worked hard to secure in recent years.
“That provides a level of stability and certainty that is vital for farm businesses as they plan, invest and adapt for the future.
“It is also encouraging to see the clear emphasis on direct support, recognising its importance to the viability of many farming and crofting businesses.”
The Plan aims to balance food production, climate action, biodiversity and support for rural communities, priorities that NFU Scotland said are widely shared across the sector.
However, the Union warned that the success of the framework will depend on how schemes are delivered in practice.
It said more detail is needed on how support will transition into the new system and how schemes will operate on the ground.
Concerns were also raised about the long term funding settlement, which remains fixed at £677 million over five years.
NFU Scotland said this represents a real terms reduction as costs for feed, fuel and fertiliser continue to rise.
The organisation has repeated calls for increased investment to ensure farm businesses remain profitable.
Andrew Connon said:
“These ambitions can only be achieved if farm businesses remain profitable.
“While the framework is positive, more detail is needed on how schemes will operate in practice and how existing support will transition into the new system.
“Farmers and crofters are ready to deliver for climate and nature, but support must reflect the true cost of doing so and avoid unnecessary complexity.”
NFU Scotland also stressed that food production must remain central to future agricultural policy alongside environmental goals.
It said farmers across Scotland already produce high quality food to high standards and that role must be protected.
The Union described the Rural Support Plan as a solid foundation, with the next phase focused on refining the detail and ensuring it works for those on the ground.
NFU Scotland will continue to engage with political parties and the next Scottish Government as the policy develops, giving farmers and crofters a voice in shaping the future of the sector.
