Time Stamps:

00:36 News in Brief

05:45 Policy Briefs – Food and Drink Processing Scheme, Community Right to Buy, Funding for Gleylag Geese on Uist, Help for Households Using Heating Oil, Electronic Identification for Cattle, Key Dates.

17:14 Cereals – Latest news and market update

25:22 Beef – Latest news and market update

31:53 Sheep – Latest news and market update

39:27 Milk – Latest news and market update

46:49 Sector focus – Maker Space, a Digital Dairy Chain project

51:40 Further articles – FAS TV ‘After Winter: Crop Performance and the Season Ahead’, FAS podcast ‘Rural Roundup Policy Update’ and FAS article ‘Agronomy for Ecological Focus Area Herb and Legume Rich Swards’

FAS Resources:

Newsletters - Business & Policy Edition - Farm Advisory Service

advice@fas.scot

Other Resources:

ScotGov - Scottish farm business income: annual estimates 2024-2025

Food and Drink Processing Scheme - Intro & Guidance

Community rights to buy review - gov.scot

Energy Grants Assistance | Energy Advice | energyadvice.scot

Scottish Government Consultations:

Accelerating Home-building in Scotland

Scottish Law Commission’s Report on Section 53 of the Title Conditions (Scotland) Act 2003

Onshore electricity generation: increasing the threshold for applications under The Electricity Act

Publications:

Short-term lets: regulation information - gov.scot

Supporting Scotland's transition - land use and agriculture: consultation analysis report - gov.scot

Planning for Water Scarcity: Practical guidance

The Agricultural Supply Chain Adjudicator: Milk Sector Survey 2026

Further choices:

After Winter: Crop Performance and The Season Ahead

Rural Roundup - Policy Update

EFA Herb and Legume Rich Swards

New Technologies & Renewable for Dairy Farms

Crofting Through the Seasons - Spring & Summer

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Show Notes

00:35 News in Brief

05:42 Policy Briefs – Agri-Tourism Investment Scheme (AIS), Agri-Environment Climate Scheme (AECS), National Islands Plan, Securing Homes in Rural and Island Communities, Upcoming Grant Funding, Lamb Castration Consultation, Key Dates, Consultations and Publications.

14:19 Cereals – Latest news and market update

20:42 Beef – Latest news and market update

27:48 Sheep – Latest news and market update

30:50 Milk – Latest news and market update

37:45 Sector focus – How a turbulent global trading environment is shaping the outlook for Scottish agriculture

47:26 Further articles – ‘Preparing for calving (FAS TV), ‘All things insurance’ (podcast) and ‘Alternative Protein Crop Overview’ (FAS article)

FAS Links and Resources:

Newsletters - Business & Policy Edition - Farm Advisory Service

advice@fas.scot

Other Links and Resources:

Agritourism Investment Scheme 2026 (FAS)

Agritourism Investment Scheme contact

Management Options

Capital Items

Fair Work First

National Islands Plan - gov.scot

Affordable Housing Supply Programme

Rural and Island Housing Fund

Lamb Welfare: Consultation

Accelerating Home-building in Scotland (closing date 30.04.26)

Scottish Law Commission’s Report on Section 53 of the Title Conditions (Scotland) Act 2003 (closing date 15.05.26)

Onshore electricity generation: increasing the threshold for applications (closing date 27.05.26)

Short-term lets: regulation information - gov.scot (25.02.26 publication date)

Supporting Scotland's transition - land use and agriculture - gov.scot (25.02.26 publication date)

Scottish farm business income - gov.scot (2024-25 link available from 27.03.26)

Is whisky tourism on the rocks? - BBC News

Scotch whisky production slows as tariffs and weak demand bite | EasternEye

What the India tariffs deal means for Scotch whisky - BBC News

Chinese whisky tariff cut to come into force - BBC News

Impact.economist.com/key-findings

FAS TV Series 5 Ep 27 - Preparing for Calving

All things Insurance - FAS (Rural Roundup podcast)

Alternative Protein Crop Overview

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Show Notes

00:33 News in Brief

04:35 Policy Briefs – Agri-Tourism Investment Scheme (AIS), Agri-Environment Climate Scheme (AECS), Preparing for Sustainable Farming (PSF), Drivers over 70, Agri Wages Board Minimum Wage Proposal, Protection of Tenants, Rural and Island Communities

19:05 Cereals – Latest news and market update

26:20 Beef – Latest news and market update

30:04 Sheep – Latest news and market update

34:00 Milk – Latest news and market update

39:27 Sector focus – Promoting your farm or croft online

50:40 Further articles – ‘Preparing for lambing’ (FAS TV), ‘New Year, New Kit?’ (FAS TV) and ‘Who will milk the cows tomorrow?’ (FAS article)

FAS Resources:

Newsletters - Business & Policy Edition - Farm Advisory Service

Other Links and Resources:

Visitor Levy Amendment Bill published - gov.scot

Avian influenza (bird flu) outbreaks - gov.scot

Sheep scab notifications - gov.scot

Business Insights and Conditions in Scotland (wave 148)

Agritourism Investment Scheme (AIS)

AECS - Management Options page

AECS - Capital Items page

AECS - Targeting tool

AECS - Seeking Endorsement

Fair Work First

Preparing for Sustainable farming portal

Renew your driving licence if you're 70 or over - GOV.UK

SAWB@gov.scot

The Investigation and Commencement of Repair (Scotland) Regulations 2026

Rural & Islands Insight Report 2025

Slaughter lamb classification (GOV.UK)

Wix - website builder

Squarespace - website builder

IONOS - website builder

Mailchimp (email marketing)

FAS TV Series 5 Ep 24 - Preparing for Lambing

Who will milk the cows tomorrow?

FAS TV Series 5 Ep 23 - ONE AgriTech

CropCast - Knowing Your Numbers| FAS

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Show Notes

00:36 News in Brief

03:24 Policy Briefs – Muirburn licencing, Sheep and Goat Inventory, PSF claims, slurry storage regulations, visitor levies, key dates, newly released publications.

13:47 Cereals – Review of 2025 and looking ahead to 2026

20:13 Beef – Review of 2025 and looking ahead to 2026

31:20 Sheep – Review of 2025 and looking ahead to 2026

36:06 Milk – Review of 2025 and looking ahead to 2026

42:54 Sector focus – Geopolitics and global agricultural trends

50:21 Further articles – Ledmacoy free-range bronze turkeys (FAS TV), Organics at Bowhouse (FAS TV) and Agronomy Past, Present & Future (FAS Podcast)

FAS Links and Resources:

Newsletters - Business & Policy Edition - Farm Advisory Service

Other Links and Resources:

National Flood Advisory Service

Natural Environment (Scotland) Bill

Glyphosate Renewal Group

Next Generation Practical Training Fund

Peatland Training Fund

Environmental Authorisation (Scotland) Regulations (EASR) 2018

Wildlife Management & Muirburn (Scotland) Act 2024

Sheep and Goat Inventory

Farming and Water Scotland - Slurry and Manure Storage

Antimicrobial resistance

Rural Scotland data dashboard 2025: data tables

Livestock identification and traceability: guidance

The First National Good Food Nation Plan

The First National Good Food Nation Plan (Gaelic)

FAS TV Series 5 Ep 21 - Ledmacoy Turkeys - YouTube

FAS TV Series 5 Ep 20 - Organics at Bowhouse

CropCast - Agronomy Past, Present & Future | FAS

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Show Notes  

00:41 News in Brief 

06:33 Policy Briefs – Future Farming Investment Scheme, Land Reform (Scotland) Bill, Scotland’s Climate Change Plan to 2040, Council Tax Reforms, QMS Cattle and Sheep Assurance Scheme Standards 

15:15 Cereals – latest arable news and market update  

23:24 Beef – latest beef news and market update  

27:05 Sheep – latest sheep news and market update 

32:26 Milk – Milk Production Data, Farm-gate Prices, Dairy Commodities and Market Indicators, Dairy Exports, Winter Lighting Systems, Organic Milk 

40:48 Sector focus – overview of the UK Autumn Budget and its impacts on Scottish Agriculture. 

47:07 Further articles – FAS 12 Days of Christmas, Achieving Net Zero in Beef Farming (FAS TV) and Looking After Yourself (FAS Podcast)  

Links and Resources: 

Newsletters - Business & Policy Edition - Farm Advisory Service  

Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act of 2025 

Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) 

SRUC’s research (how to improve the lives of animals) 

Climate Change Plan to 2040 

A consultation on the Draft Climate Change Plan 

Future of council tax in Scotland: consultation - gov.scot 

QMS Cattle and Sheep Standards 

Cattle and Sheep Assurance scheme - what's changed 

Sheep Producers Intentions Survey - Meat and Livestock Australia 

Tesco Christmas Trend Report for 2025 

Office for Budget Responsibility’s report 

The 12 Days of Christmas | Helping farmers in Scotland 

FAS TV Series - Net Zero on Beef Farms 

RSABI Health Hut  

NHS Inform  

Rural Roundup podcast - Mens Health Month  

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot 

Facebook: @FASScot 

National Advice Hub 

Phone: 0300 323 0161 

Email: advice@fas.scot 

Show Notes  

00:39 News in Brief 

05:49 Policy Briefs – Future Farming Investment Scheme, Agri-environment Climate Scheme Update, June Agricultural Census 2025 Results, Rodenticides, Muirburn Licence Update, Ecological Focus Areas, Suckler Beef Support Scheme, Small Scale Woodlands, Key Dates. 

16:58 Cereals – latest arable news and market update  

25:23 Beef – Festive Demand, Consumer Demand, Price Rewards, Store Trade, Cull Cow Trade, Breeding Cattle.  

34:02 Sheep – October Trade Round-Up, European and UK Lamb, Global Prices. 

38:58 Milk – Milk Production Data, Farm-gate Prices, Dairy Commodities and Market Indicators, How Clean Is Your Water   

46:03 Sector focus – Dairy Technology – Where can it benefit your business?  

55:31 Further articles – Tech Savvy Dairy Farming, Slatted flooring for sheep, Greening changes, Arable Farm Finances, Upcoming deadlines, Herd Advance Stockman system, Making Succession a Success 

Links and Resources: 

Newsletters - Business & Policy Edition - Farm Advisory Service   

BASIS PROMPT 

BPCA 2(British Pest Control Association) Registered 

CRRU Campaign for Responsible Rodenticide Use) - Think Wildlife 

Lantra Awards Level 2 Award in Rodent Management - Lantra 

The Wildlife Management and Muirburn (Scotland) Bill 

Delayed implementation of the muirburn provisions | Scottish Parliament Website 

The Rural Support (Improvement) (Miscellaneous Amendment) (Scotland) (No. 2) Regulations 2025 

Small woodlands | Scottish Forestry 

Pneumonitor - environment monitoring for your pen 

Farm-twin - Digital Dairy Chain  

SRUC Major projects | Digital Dairy Chain 

Precision solutions to animal health & welfare: Dairy Calf  

Building ventilation: Calves 

Building ventilation: Dairy 

Lighting for Cows 

Cattle Housing - Ventilation 

Are Robots for Me?   

How to Assess and Improve Cow Cleanliness 

Converting to Slatted Flooring for Improved Sheep Housing  

Greening Changes (FAS publication) 

EFA: What you need to know in 5 minutes (video) 

Arable Farm Finances (Crop Cast podcast) 

Rural Roundup - Reminders (podcast) 

FAS TV Series 5 Ep 15 - Herd Advance TechnologyHYPERLINK "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cWaEyNZ-d-Y" 

Succession Planning with Agricultural & Rural Business Solicitors (FAS TV)HYPERLINK "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L61Ac3MXDfc" 

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot 

Facebook: @FASScot 

National Advice Hub 

Phone: 0300 323 0161 

Email: advice@fas.scot 

Show Notes  

00:32 News in Brief  

05:15 Policy Briefs – Scottish Upland Sheep Support Scheme, New rules for applying waste to land, Improving Biosecurity on Pig Farms, Compulsory Purchase Reform, Bluetongue BVT-3 - Changes to restrictions in Scotland, Muirburn Licence, Key dates 

15:21 Cereals – latest arable news and market update  

22:46 Beef – Finished beef prices, Store Cattle Trade, Dairy Beef calf numbers rising 

28:44 Sheep – September Trade Round-Up, New Zealand Outlook 2025-26, Australian Lamb, Global Prices 

32:56 Milk – Milk production data, Farm-gate prices, Dairy commodities and market indicators, UK sexed semen use, Global milk outlook   

39:32 Sector focus – Viability and profitability of farm-scale renewables  

45:06 Further articles – Renewable Energy, Sheep records and tagging, Benefits of whole milk for calves, New regulations for the application of waste to land, Talking Turkey, NFUS Policy Manager Lucy McGillvary   

Links and Resources: 

Newsletters - Business & Policy Edition - Farm Advisory Service  

Farming Profitability Review 

Cows painted with zebra-like striping can avoid biting fly attack  

PF22 - Scottish Upland Sheep Support Scheme claim form 

Scottish Upland Sheep Support Scheme full guidance 

Soil improvement using waste | Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) 

Compulsory Purchase Reform in Scotland - Scottish Government consultations - Citizen Space 

Bluetongue Movement checker 

DEFRA - General licence for the movement of animals from a bluetongue restricted zone - General licence EXD662 (E) 

Bluetongue movement restrictions for animals - Bluetongue: how to spot and report the disease - gov.scot 

The Wildlife Management and Muirburn (Scotland) Bill 

Nature Scot - Muirburn licensing 

The GB Calf Strategy 2025–2030 

2020–2023 GB Dairy Calf Strategy  

Gas and electricity prices during the 'energy crisis' and beyond - House of Commons Library 

Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) - Generators | Ofgem 

Feed-in Tariffs (FIT) - Scheme Closure | Ofgem 

Renewable and low carbon energy - gov.scot 

FAS Renewable FAQ’s 

FAS Farm Scale Renewable Energy Guide 

Agribusiness News October 2024 – Sector Focus: Biomass 

Agribusiness News May 2023 – Becoming Energy Self-Sufficient 

FAS Video - Anaerobic Digestors 

FAS Video - Energy Management - Batteries 

FAS Video - Hydrogen 

FAS Publication - Renewables - Frequently Asked Questions 

FAS Publication - A practical introduction to small scale renewables 

Sheep Records & Tagging | Helping farmers in Scotland 

The Benefits of Whole Milk for Calves | Helping farmers in Scotland 

Rural Roundup - New Regulations for Applying Waste to Land 

Stock Talk - Bred to be Wild! | FAS 

FAS TV Series 5 Ep 13 - Talking Policy with NFUS's Lucy McGillivray 

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot 

Facebook: @FASScot 

National Advice Hub 

Phone: 0300 323 0161 

Email: advice@fas.scot 

Show Notes  

00:34 News in Brief 

04:05 Policy Briefs – Payment rates for BPS and Greening 2025, Sustainable and Regenerative Agricultural Practices amongst LFA Farmers and Crofters, Electronic Cattle Tagging Update, Building Climate Resilience, Organic Farming, Community Right to Buy, Key Dates. 

13:36 Cereals – latest arable news and market update  

19:41 Beef – Consumer demand, imported beef, finished prices, store cattle demand, Cull cow trade 

25:27 Sheep – August trade roundup, global position, EU outlook 

31:01 Milk – Milk production data, Farm-gate prices, Dairy commodities and market indicators, Great British Calf Week, Heat stress   

36:42 Sector focus – The economic cost of infertile gimmers  

41:16 Further articles – How are your cows coping in the warm weather? In the face of adversity, try diversity! Is organic farming in your future? Stock Talk - Livestock Health: Laying it All Out. FAS TV: Improving Efficiencies in Sheep Systems. FAS TV: Gaelic Culture, Tradition & Heritage on Uist.  

FAS Resources: 

Newsletters - Business & Policy Edition - Farm Advisory Service  

Other Links: 

LFA Farmers and Crofters - sustainable and regenerative agricultural practices - Report  

Nature30 Nomination Form - Nature Scot 

Email nomination form to: 30x30@nature.scot 

Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2016 

Community right to buy: review - Scottish Government consultations - Citizen Space 

Community right to buy consultation – Gaelic version: Leriche’s air Còir-cheannaich Coimhearsnachd co-chomhairle 

AHDB - GB calf week 

Heat stress on fertility traits in dairy cows - Journal of Dairy Science 

Dairy cows - warm weather  

Beef cows and heat stress  

Reducing Heat Stress in Calves | Helping farmers in Scotland 

Warning: Heat Stress, Beef Cows | Helping farmers in Scotland 

How To Select Plant Species For Diverse Forage | Helping farmers in Scotland 

Organic Farming - Farm Advisory Service 

Stock Talk - Livestock Health: Laying it All Out | FAS 

FAS TV S3 Ep3: Improving Efficiencies in Sheep Systems 

FAS TV Series 5 Ep 10 - Gaelic Culture, Tradition & Heritage on Uist 

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot 

Facebook: @FASScot 

National Advice Hub 

Phone: 0300 323 0161 

Email: advice@fas.scot 

Show Notes

00:38 News in Brief

04:16 Policy Briefs – Future Farming Investment Scheme (FFIS), Community right to buy, Knowledge Transfer Innovation Fund (KTIF), Peatland Training Fund, Next Generation Practical Training Fund, Agricultural Household Survey, Key Dates.

13:56 Cereals – latest arable news and market update

22:37 Beef –Beef prices and supply, Store cattle demand and supply, Cull cow trade

27:13 Sheep – New season lamb trade, Imports and Exports

30:23 Milk – Milk production data, Farm-gate prices, Dairy commodities and market indicators, Grass growth and quality, How do you measure up? 

35:54 Sector focus –Selling Your Farm – the benefits of doing some ground work before looking to sell your farm.

41:16 Further articles – Tax and Succession Planning, Challenges and opportunities facing the beef industry, Dairy – How do you measure up?, Rural Roundup – Inheritance Tax and Succession planning.

FAS Resources:

Newsletters- Business & Policy Edition - Farm Advisory Service

Other Links:

AHDB  - predicting beef demand as retail prices rise

Future Farm Investment Scheme full guidance

Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003

Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015

Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2016

Community right tobuy: review - Scottish Government consultations - Citizen Space

Leriche’s air Còir-cheannaich Coimhearsnachd co-chomhairle

Knowledge Transfer and Innovation Fund - Rural Payments and Services

Peatland Training Fund- Skills Hub Scotland

Peatland Training Fund | Lantra - Scotland

Next Generation Practical Training Fund - Skills Hub Scotland

Kingshay - Dairy Costings Focus Report 2025

Scotland's Land Information Service

Additional Dwelling Supplement (ADS)

Home Report

Energy Performance Certificate

Inheritance Tax & Succession | Helping farmers in Scotland

FAS TV - developing a more resilient beef finishing enterprise

Kingshay - Dairy Costings Focus Report 2025

FAS - FMH October 2024 - Dairying

FAS podcast - Rural Roundup - Autumn budget 2024

FAS TV - FFIS - Farmers

FAS TV - FFIS - Crofters

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Show Notes  

00:40 News in Brief 

04:08 Policy Briefs – The Future Farming Investment Scheme, Scottish Suckler Beef Support Scheme, Single Application Form Changes for 2026, Scottish Government Bills Update, Bluetongue (BTV) Virus Update. 

14:03 Cereals – UK Feed Wheat Futures attempt Rebound Amid Geopolitical Tensions and Weather Risks. Global Supply Tightens, but Exportable Stocks Hold Steady. UK Market Faces Headwinds from Biofuel Uncertainty. Oilseeds Market Strengthens on Energy-Led Support.   

19:59 Beef – What a difference a month can make, Market confidence waivers, Beef support, Store cattle, Are prices reflecting consumer demand? Australia drops their 2030 Carbon Neutral Target. 

23:59 Sheep – India Trade Agreement, Lamb trade, Australian Intentions Survey, Mutton. 

28:22 Milk – Milk production data, Farm-gate prices, Dairy commodities and market indicators, Global demand for butter, Falling producer numbers but production rising, Heat stress research.  

36:02 Sector focus – Scottish Agricultural Greenhouse Gas Emission and Nitrogen Use report 2023-24.  

42:48 Further articles – Crofting Legislation, Greenhouse Gasses, Nitrogen Use and Benchmarking, Muirburn, Natural Capital Podcast on measuring and accounting for biodiversity, FAS TV episode on Outwintering and Virtual fencing. 

FAS Resources: 

Newsletters - Business & Policy Edition - Farm Advisory Service  

Other Links: 

No cuts to cows: Scottish ministers side with farmers - FarmingUK News 

Future Farm Investment Scheme full guidance 

The Future of Agricultural Support - Enhanced Greening 

Wildlife Management and Muirburn (Scotland) Bill 

NatureScot website 

The Crofting and Scottish Land Court Bill 

Crofters (Scotland) Act 1993 

Crofting Reform (Scotland) Act 2010 

Bluetongue - GOV.scot 

Apply to move animals out of bluetongue zones - GOV.UK 

Crofting Legislation - fas.scot 

Advancing Agricultural Practices, Reducing Emissions and Ensuring Sustainable Growth in the Face of Climate Challenge 

COP 26 – What can farmers do? Reducing Emissions on Farm 

Low emission livestock breeding – the What and the Why 

Profiting from reducing tillage and lowering emissions 

Practical Guidance for reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions and soil carbon losses 

Benchmarking Matters – the What, Why, How 

Muirburn - FAS.scot 

AHDB, 25 June 25 

Dairy June forecast update for the 2025/26 milk year - AHDB 

Online survey - Analysis of Scottish Housed Environment for Dairy   

Scottish agriculture greenhouse gas emissions & nitrogen use 2023-24 

Climate Change Committee - Scotland's carbon budgets 

Business and Policy June 2025 - Policy Brief 

Greenhouse gas abatement in UK agriculture 2024-2050 

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot 

Facebook: @FASScot 

National Advice Hub 

Phone: 0300 323 0161 

Email: advice@fas.scot 

Show Notes  

00:33 News in Brief 

05:08 Policy Briefs – Programme for Government 2025-2026, 2025 Climate Change Committee Report, Next Generation Farming – Apprenticeships, Bluetongue (BTV) Virus Vaccine, Scottish Upland Sheep Support Scheme (SUSSS), Key Dates. 

15:33 Cereals – Global Supply Risks Mount, Demand-Side Developments, Malting Barley & Feed Barley, Rapeseed Mixed Market, Oats, Overall Outlook.  

22:13 Beef – Young bull numbers impacting on prices, Strong demand for manufacturing beef, Store Cattle Trade Back, Room for more? 

29:02 Sheep – UK EU Strategic Partnership, Sheep Trade, Export Market, Protein Consumption 

33:18 Milk – Production data, Farm-gate prices, Dairy commodities and market indicators, Antimicrobial resistance in calves, Rabobank global outlook  

39:22 Sector focus – Farm Diversification.  

51:05 Further articles – Croft Diversification, Reducing Antimicrobial Use in Scottish Dairy Farms, A couple more cows per herd each year would realise Scotland’s economic potential by 2030, Grain Marketing Podcast, Bluetongue, Bee Health Awareness Day   

FAS Resources: 

Newsletters - Business & Policy Edition - FAS 

Other Links: 

The Natural Environment (Scotland) Bill 

The Land Reform (Scotland) Bill 

Scotland's Carbon Budgets Report 2025  

Lantra Scotland - land based pre-apprenticeship 

scotland@lantra.co.uk  

Report your use of the bluetongue serotype 3 (BTV-3) vaccine - GOV.UK 

GOV.uk - Bluetongue: news, information and guidance for livestock keepers 

GOV.WALES 

The Scottish Government - gov.scot 

QMS article: two more cows per herd per year 

The Cargill 2025 Protein Profile Report  

Scottish Farm Business Income: Annual Estimates for 2023-2024 

Standard Innovation Vouchers   | Interface Online 

McKinsey wellness market report  

Agribusiness News November 2023 – Sector Focus: Croft Diversification 

Reducing Antimicrobial Use in Scottish Dairy Farms 

QMS article: two more cows per herd per year 

CropCast podcast – Grain Marketing 

CropCast series 

Agribusiness News July 2024 - Bluetongue 

Agribusiness News April 2025 – Pollinator’s Value To Scottish Agriculture 

Scottish Government Bee Health Day Tickets, Sat, Jun 28, 2025 at 9:30 AM | Eventbrite 

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot 

Facebook: @FASScot 

National Advice Hub 

Phone: 0300 323 0161 

Email: advice@fas.scot 

Agribusiness News publication is now moving to the Business & Policy newsletter, a monthly update on market and policy intelligence for farmers and other rural professionals. To subscribe, please visit our newsletters page at https://www.fas.scot/newsletters/

Show Notes

00:34 News in Brief 

02:39 Policy Briefs – Keeping Up to Date, Glyphosate renewal, Housing Rent Control Consultation, Dog Theft (Scotland) Bill, Key dates. 

08:05 Cereals – Scottish Harvest Estimate, Scottish Farm Business Survey Results.  

15:47 Beef – Prices top £7 per kilo, Consumer demand and trade impacts, Farm Business Survey beef farms. 

21:42 Sheep – Trade and festivals, Impact of US tariffs on the sector, Scottish Farm Business Survey Results.   

25:56 Milk – Production data, farm-gate prices, dairy commodities and market indicators, milk from grass, pre-cutting grass analysis. 

33:01 Sector focus – US Tariffs.  

37:51 Further articles – The Trump Effect, Scottish Farm Business Income, Improving your farming finances.   

FAS Resources: 

Business and Policy Newsletter 2025 (Formally Agribusiness News) 

Newsletters | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service

Other Links: 

Rural Policy | Scottish Parliament Website 

Active substance renewal: glyphosate - HSE 

EU plant protection regulations (EC website) 

Scottish Government: Housing (Scotland) Bill: Consultation 

Housing (Scotland) Bill - Scottish Government consultations - Citizen Space 

Dog Theft (Scotland) Bill | Scottish Parliament Website 

Scottish Farm Business Survey: annual estimates 2023-2024  

Sector Focus: The Trump Effect (ABN December 2024) 

Scottish Farm Business Income 2021 – 2022 (ABN April 2023) 

Improve your farming finances in 30 minutes  

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot 

Twitter: @FASScot 

Facebook: @FASScot 

National Advice Hub 

Phone: 0300 323 0161 

Email: advice@fas.scot 

Show Notes  

00:39 News in Brief 

03:02 Policy Briefs – Future Farming Investment Scheme, Scottish Suckler Beef Support Payments, Sea Eagle Management Scheme, GAEC 7 Retention of Landscapes, Funding for Apprenticeships, Back British produce. 

08:38 Arable- Global markets, European markets, UK markets.  

13:58 Beef – Up and up and up. 

18:29 Sheep – Ramadan progresses, worldwide.   

22:50 Sector Focus – Sustainable proteins.   

28:04 Milk – Production data, farm-gate prices, dairy commodities and market indicators, changes to the Nation Johne’s Management Plan, decline in dairy calf registrations, sign up to the UK Dairy Carbon network research project. 

32:51 Sector focus – Nature based solutions in a chaotic climate.  

38:17 Inputs: Pollinators. 

44:30 Management Matters – Seasonal workers.   

FAS Resources: 

Agribusiness News March 2025  

Other Links: 

Sea Eagle Management Scheme 

GAEC 7 Retention of Landscape 

Agricultural Employers' toolkit by Lantra Scotland  

AHDB - the UK dairy carbon network 

Registration of Interest - UK Dairy Carbon Network (UK-DCN) Project  

Increase in the frequency of extreme daily precipitation in the United Kingdom in autumn 

UKCP18 projects greater chance of hotter, drier summers and warmer, wetter winters 

Climate Extremes in Scotland.  

Assessing the socio-economic impacts of soil degradation on Scotland’s water environment 

Water Management on Your Farm: Slowing the Flow  

Climate Adaption and Measures to implement on farm 

Adaptation Scotland (2021) summary of climate projections for the country  

Importance of pollinators in changing landscapes for world crops 

How many flowering plants are pollinated by animals? 

State of Nature, Scotland 

Wildlife-friendly farming increases crop yield: evidence for ecological intensification 

The effectiveness of flower strips and hedgerows on pest control, pollination services and crop yield: a quantitative synthesis 

Pollinator Portal    

Visa Scheme 

The Agricultural wages: A Guide for Workers and Employers  

Scottish Agricultural Wages Board telephone number 0131 244 9750 

Scottish Agricultural Wages Board email sawb@gov.scot 

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot 

Twitter: @FASScot 

Facebook: @FASScot 

National Advice Hub 

Phone: 0300 323 0161 

Email: advice@fas.scot 

Hosted by Christine Beaton, produced by Heather Stuart. edited by Cameron Waugh, Executive Producer Kerry Hammond.

Show Notes  

00:41 News in Brief 

02:59 Policy Briefs – Preparing for Sustainable Farming, Restoring Scotland’s Natural Environment, Delivering for Rural Scotland, Supporting Farmers, Crofters and Food Producers, Brexit Trade Barriers. 

08:16 Arable- Global overview, market movements and outlook.  

13:47 Beef – Beef prices rocket, demand, dream store cattle prices and manufacturing beef demand. 

19:05 Sheep – Ramadan ramping up trade, import figures jump and social media opportunities.   

23:07 Sector Focus – Potatoes.   

28:30 Milk – Production data, farm-gate prices, dairy commodities and market indicators, investment at Scottish creamery, Scottish dairy herd trends and December dairy costings. 

33:35 Sector focus – New Zealand. 

40:29 Inputs: Fertiliser use trends in Scotland. 

44:10 Management Matters – Wills and Power of Attorney.    

FAS Resources: 

Agribusiness News March 2025  

Other Links: 

December 2024 Sector Focus article  

Preparing for Sustainable Farming: Full Scheme Guidance  

Natural Environment (Scotland) Bill  

Rural Delivery Plan  

Scottish Government’s Brexit Trade Modelling Report 

Fertiliser usage - Results from the British Survey of Fertiliser Practice 

Fertiliser Statistics Report 2024 (AIC) 

Contact a FACTS qualified advisor    

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot 

Twitter: @FASScot 

Facebook: @FASScot 

National Advice Hub 

Phone: 0300 323 0161 

Email: advice@fas.scot 

Show Notes  

00:41 News in Brief 

03:10 Policy Briefs – Foot and Mouth Disease and Avian Flu, heating grant, area monitoring pilot, national flood advisory service, new housing planning hub. 

08:18 Arable- US tariff uncertainty, Sterling weakens through January, barley, oilseeds and oats.  

13:04 Beef – Short supply and records prices continue. 

17:31 Sheep – Shoppers trends, Christmas trends, markets and Australia.  

21:49 Sector Focus – Breeding bulls.   

26:40 Milk – production data, farm-gate prices, dairy commodities and market indicators, Mullers carbon reduction programme, a glass of milk a day! 

31:38 Sector focus – Pigs. 

37:27 Inputs: The role of Co-operatives in supporting agribusiness in Scotland. 

42:09 Management Matters – Landlords and the 2025 SAF Whole Farm Plan requirements  

FAS Resources 

Agribusiness News February 2025  

Other Links:  

The Paris Agreement | UNFCCC   

Foot and mouth disease  

Avian Influenza (Bird Flu)  

Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) Field Services Office   

RSABI Help For Heating   

National Flood Resilience Strategy  

The National Bovine Data Centre (NBDC)  

NBDC beef cattle type classification guide  

Aberdeen-Angus Linear Assessment Explanatory Doc  

Animal Health & Welfare plan  

Integrated Pest Management Plan  

Nature Scot - Biodiversity Audit  

Rural Payments website - Whole Farm Plan guidance  

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot 

Twitter: @FASScot 

Facebook: @FASScot 

National Advice Hub 

Phone: 0300 323 0161 

Email: advice@fas.scot 

Show Notes  

00:40 News in Brief 

02:06 Policy Briefs – Roundup of 2024 and looking to 2025 and beyond. 

07:52 Arable- Political alliances define trading blocs, Black Sea region supplies diminishing and UK barley and oats.  

12:34 Beef – 2024 market recap, Scottish suckler herd decline and 2025 beef outlook. 

17:33 Sheep – 2024 – what a year! Looking forward to 2025.  

22:02 Sector Focus – 2024 environmental roundup.   

29:56 Milk – 2024 review: a year of two halves and 2025 dairy outlook. 

35:35 Sector focus – Global trends.   

47:08 Management Matters – Financial matters: a year of political change, fiscal policy and looking ahead.  

FAS Resources 

Agribusiness News January 2025  

Other Links: 

Farm management handbook 2024-25 

www.sac.co.uk/fmh 

fmh@sac.co.uk 

Land Reform (Scotland) Bill  

Wildlife Management and Muirburn (Scotland) Bill 

NatureScot Website 

Whole Farm Plans 

Biodiversity Audits 

Plant Health Centre 

Agriculture and Rural Communities (Scotland) Bill 

Scottish Kept Bird Register 

Climate Change (Emissions Reduction Targets) (Scotland) Bill 

Sheep and Goat Inventory 

Preparing for Sustainable farming portal on the Rural Payments and Services Website 

Farming and Water Scotland - Slurry and Manure Storage 

National Adaptation Plan 2024-2029 

Biodiversity Delivery Plan 2024-2040  

COP29 

COP16  

Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) reporting internationally 

Scottish Government - compliance measures in agriculture from 2025 

Land Reform Bill 

Record levels of peatland restored in 2024 (SG) 

Natural Capital Markets Framework 

Facility for Investment Ready (FIRNs) 

Nature finance investment fund - Nature Scot 

Landscape Enterprise Networks (LENs)  

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot 

Twitter: @FASScot 

Facebook: @FASScot 

National Advice Hub 

Phone: 0300 323 0161 

Email: advice@fas.scot 

Show Notes  

00:39 News in Brief 

02:30 Policy Briefs – Preparing for sustainable farming, woodburning stoves, vacant crofts, climate change bill, proposed new national park, launch of Scotland’s Natural Capital Market Framework. 

06:49 Arable- Slow Europe export pace  

10:48 Beef – Record beef prices 

14:53 Sheep & Turkeys – Christmas costs  

18:51 Sector Focus – The Trump effect   

24:46 Milk - Production data, farm-gate prices, dairy commodities and market indicators, new export market, Arla farmers to trial Bovaer 

29:51 Sector focus – HerdPlan   

33:51 Inputs – Calving Interval – Herd fertility    

39:00 Management Matters – Carbon & Biodiversity credits  

FAS Resources 

Agribusiness News December 2024  

Other Links:  

Building (Scotland) Amendment (No. 2) Regulations 2024 

Climate Change (Emissions Reduction Targets) (Scotland) Bill  

A Proposed New National Park in Scotland - Have Your Say | NatureScot  

Natural Capital Market Framework - gov.scot (www.gov.scot)  

HerdPlan  

herdplan@sruc.ac.uk  

UK Government Principles for Voluntary Carbon and Nature Market Integrity  

QMS - guide to improving suckler herd fertility (Graph 1, page 8)  

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot 

Twitter: @FASScot 

Facebook: @FASScot 

National Advice Hub 

Phone: 0300 323 0161 

Email: advice@fas.scot 

Show Notes  

00:44 News in Brief 

02:47 Policy Briefs – Scottish Suckler Beef Support Scheme, UK Budget October 2024 Snapshot, June Agricultural Census 2024, Seasonal Worker Visas Scheme 2025, and Scottish Aggregates Tax. 

08:34 Arable- Scottish Harvest Estimate 

12:03 Beef – Demand Holds Finished Cattle Above £5/kg 

16:28 Sheep – Supply and Demand, Land Use Change and Disease Threats  

19:55 Sector Focus – Finding the Right Advisor   

24:14 Milk - Production data, Farm-gate prices, Dairy commodities and market indicators, Positive outlook, Are your calves happy? 

29:33 Sector focus – Extreme Weather   

34:39 Inputs – Homegrown Proteins – Options, Benefits, Nutritional Values and Growing Costs    

39:09 Management Matters – Biodiversity and the Whole Farm Plan  

 FAS Resources 

 Agribusiness News November 2024  

 Other Links: 

Agricultural Census data  

Cereal and oilseed rape harvest - first estimates: 2024 

Trade statistics from QMS 

NFUS survey - consumer attitudes   

Scottish Suckler Beef Support Scheme FAQ 

2023 seasonal worker’s survey report 

Scottish Aggregates Tax 

Economic Impact of Extreme Weather on Scottish Agriculture 

Agricultural Reform List of Measures 

Agricultural Reform Route Map 

WWF Scotland funded project - Impact of Extreme Weather Events on Scottish Agriculture 

Whole Farm Plans 

Specialist Advice | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot) 

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot 

Twitter: @FASScot 

Facebook: @FASScot 

National Advice Hub 

Phone: 0300 323 0161 

Email: advice@fas.scot 

Show Notes

00:44 News in Brief

03:04 Policy Briefs – Climate Change Bill Published, Licensing Canine Fertility Services, Children and Farm Machinery, Woodburning Stoves Update.

07:45 Arable - Global grains trade eastward, UK Harvest and Grain Quality Update

13:09 Beef – Record High Scottish Prime Cattle Prices

17:52 Sheep – Around the Globe

21:26 Sector Focus – Biomass – UK Biomass Challenges and Opportunities

25:49 Milk - Production data, Farm-gate prices, Dairy commodities and market indicators, Feeding to maximise your milk

30:56 Sector focus – Bale Grazing –The System, Planning, Benefits

35:10 Inputs – Forage and Feed Budgeting – Importance of planning, benefits, the process, options to consider   

40:41 Management Matters – Heating Rual Housing – EPC targets, Funding, Legislation changes, New technologies  

FAS Resources

Agribusiness News October 2024  

Other Links:

Climate Change (Emissions Reduction Targets) (Scotland) Bill | Scottish Parliament Website

Licensing of activities involving animals: consultation response analysis

Children and public safety - HSE

UK’s biomass strategy 2023

Biomass Connect website

Biomass Connect Showcase Event

Bale grazing system calculation - outwintering strategies booklet (sruc.ac.uk)

FAS guide to forage and feed budgeting

AHDB feed and forage calculator

Farm Advisory Service

Home Energy Scotland

Energy Saving Trust

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Show Notes  

00:43 News in Brief 

02:54 Policy Briefs – Scottish Kept Bird Register, Scottish Suckler Beef Support Scheme 2025, Nature Restoration Fund 

07:04 Arable- EU imports rise, exports fall, Harvest 2024 

11:45 Beef - Finished Price reaches £5/kg, US beef demand, Store cattle, Cull cow values, Straw price variations 

15:07 Sheep – Store lamb phenomenon, Vaccine shortage continues, Food security crisis preparedness  

18:45 Sector Focus – Pigs – Standard Pig Prices, Slaughter weights, Cull sows and weaners, Cost of production, African Swine Fever update  

23:20 Milk - Production data, Farm-gate prices, Dairy commodities and market indicators, Bluetongue update, Dairy herds in decline 

27:54 Sector focus – Brazil – flawed agri-powerhouse?  

33:25 Management Matters – Suckler Beef Support Scheme – New measures, Payment rates, Financial impacts, Management matters, Force Majeure 

39:30 Input Costs – Grazing winter cereals – Nutritional value to livestock, Effects on crops, Impacts on soil, Benefits to the arable farmer, Benefits for the livestock farmer   

FAS Resources 

Agribusiness News September 2024  

Other Links:  

UK food self-sufficiency (Scottish Farmer) 

Assessing Scotland’s self-sufficiency of major food commodities (SRUC and The Rowett Institute) 

Scotland Food and Drink Partnership - Regional Food Fund Application 

Green hydrogen production (Scottish Government)  

GB Poultry Register (gov.uk) 

Register your birds (scot.uk) 

Scottish Suckler Beef Support Scheme - FAQ 

Nature Scot email 

European Commission | Agri-food data portal | Monitoring food supply and security  

Calving Intervals in Scottish Cattle (SRUC report)  

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot 

Twitter: @FASScot 

Facebook: @FASScot 

National Advice Hub 

Phone: 0300 323 0161 

Email: advice@fas.scot 

Show Notes  

00:45 News in Brief  

03:15 Policy Briefs - Crofting Law Consultation, Fly Tipping, red Grouse Licences, Farm Advisory Service Management Grants, Farm Assurance Review  

08:01 Arable- Sharp US price falls impact markets, EU and Black Sea harvest progress  

12:05 Beef - Finished Price Rebounds in July, BCMS Data, Strong Trade for Stores, MyHerdStats New Feature  

15:55 Sheep - Global Meat Outlook, Trade Back In Line  

19:56 Sector Focus – Reducing Enteric Methane  

25:18 Milk - Production data, prices, 1st cut silage quality, Kingshay annual costings report  

30:23 Sector focus – Diversification on a Shoestring   

34:30 Inputs – Dairy Heifers   

40:35 Management Matters – Marketing Livestock – Auction Marts  

FAS Resources 

Agribusiness News August 2024 | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot) 

Other Links:  

Scottish Government Crofting Law Consultation 

Wildlife Management & Muirburn (Scotland) Act 2024  

Nature Scot website  

Code of practice for grouse moor management  

Integrated Land Management Plans (ILMPs)  

Specialist Advice  

Farm Assurance Review Survey  

Kingshay annual costings report  

The Royal Countryside Fund 

Royal Countryside Fund 'More than a Mart' report 

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot 

Twitter: @FASScot 

Facebook: @FASScot 

National Advice Hub 

Phone: 0300 323 0161 

Email: advice@fas.scot 

0:40 News in Brief 

2:44 Policy Briefs - Ag Bill, Natural Capital Markets Framework, wide loads 

7:23 Arable- Weather sees market upturn, surplus of feed barley. 

11:30 Beef - Slow retail demand, variable prices. 

14:45 Sheep - Exceptional hogg and early lamb trade, fewer lambs this season 

18:15  Sector Focus – Local food supply chains. 

22:50 Milk - Lower per cow yield and output causing product stock concern. 

27:49 Inputs - AI – servant or master? 

34:00 Management Matters - Bluetongue virus 

38:45 Sector focus – Whole Farm Plans 

FAS Resources 

Agribusiness News July 2024 | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot) 

Other Links: 

2022 greenhouse gas emissions for Scotland 

Developing a natural capital market framework: survey 

Application for Agricultural Vehicles Dispensation 

Email OSDAbnormalLoadsScotland@scotland.police.uk. 

Post: Abnormal Loads Team at Detroit Road, Glenrothes, KY8 2RJ. 

Sustainable and Regenerative Farming, National Good Food Nation Plan 

Local Food for Everyone strategy report 

Local food for everyone consultation report (2021) 

CRISPr gene editing 

Bluetongue Virus 

clinical signs and differential diagnoses:  

Rural payments - whole farm plan 

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot 

Twitter: @FASScot 

Facebook: @FASScot 

National Advice Hub 

Phone: 0300 323 0161 

Email: advice@fas.scot 

Show Notes

0:43 News in Brief

2:47 Policy Briefs - Fair Work First, Antimicrobial Resistance & Visitor Levy

7:36 Arable- Barley area up, rapeseed area down.

12:57 Beef - Prices at Steak – fire up the BBQ.

16:18 Sheep - Lamb having the ride of its life.

19:30 Sector Focus – New Tiers for Agricultural Support.

23:05 Milk - Mind your minerals.

28:31 Sector focus – Carbon Calculators

32:30 Inputs - Forage First Sucklers

37:36 Management Matters - Land Registration in Scotland

FAS Resources

Agribusiness News June 2024 | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Other Links:

Fair Work First guidance.

AMR National Action Plan

Phasing out cages for laying hens consultation

Scottish Government Capital Grant Scheme Survey

Vision for Agriculture

Agriculture and Rural Communities Bill

Spring Short Term Outlook

Scope 3emissions reporting

‘Harmonisation of Carbon Accounting Tools for Agriculture

New Forage First Suckler Systems guide. Email livestock@sac.co.uk

Land Register

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Show Notes  

00:43 - News in Brief 

02:45 Policy Briefs - Agricultural Reform Route Map update 

08: 19 Arable- Wet weather leaves 2024 crop yield uncertain. 

13:33 Beef - Finished price rising; dairy-beef trends. 

17:50 Sheep - Gap widens between import prices & record UK prices. 

20:49 Sector Focus – Pig update. 

26:42 Milk - Volumes down and grass growth poor. 

31:58 Sector focus – Scottish hemp production for fibre products  

36:35 Management Matters - Straw alternatives 

41:41 Inputs - Managing winter forages 

FAS Resources 

Agribusiness News May 2024 | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)  

Other Links: 

Plant Health Centre website 

The consultation on cattle identification and traceability in Scotland  

Progressing to Net Zero 

Mark Bowsher-Gibbs mark.bowsher-gibbs@sac.co.uk. 

https://www.fas.scot/downloads/alternative-bedding-materials/  

Feed and forage calculator | AHDB. 

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot 

Twitter: @FASScot 

Facebook: @FASScot 

National Advice Hub 

Phone: 0300 323 0161 

Email: advice@fas.scot 

Show Notes  

00.45:- News in Brief 

02.43:- Policy Briefs - Spring Budget, New Bills, Farm Business Survey results 2022/23 

07.00:- Arable- Will crops be keeping us cozy in the future? 

14.17:- Wet weather tempering demand for grazing store cattle  

16.16:- Sheep - Global events bolstering UK lamb price. 

19.22:- Sector Focus – Straw & muck star players in an increasingly cyclical economy. 

22.22 :-Milk - Volumes rising but demand remains sluggish. 

27.11:- Sector focus – Scottish sheep meat – simply Baa-rilliant ! 

32.29:- Inputs - Why you should invest in your vet 

38.21:- Management Matters - Future Proofing your Retirement 

FAS Resources 

Agribusiness News April 2024 | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Other Links: 

Land Maintenance Form 

Rural Payments and Services website 

The new Land Reform (Scotland) Bill 

Scottish Farm Business Survey 

New Agricultural Wages Order 

Bioenergy 12 week consultation period 

Tolerable and Repairing Standards 

Energy Performance Certificate 

Jennifer Galloway on Jennifer.galloway@sac.co.uk and Tel 01776 702649 

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot 

Twitter: @FASScot 

Facebook: @FASScot 

National Advice Hub 

Phone: 0300 323 0161 

Email: advice@fas.scot 

Show Notes  

00.43:-News in Brief 

02.38:-Policy Briefs - AECS, energy efficiency standards, visitors levy. 

07.18:-Arable- Increased cost of shipped grain imports, tighter domestic cereal supply.. 

11.47:-Beef - Demand for finished cattle, straw shortage. 

15.27:-Sheep - Smaller 2024 flock keep prices high. 

18.56:- Sector Focus – Forestry – updates to FGS and timber markets. 

23.02 :-Milk - Characteristics of top performing dairy farms, prices update. 

27.22:- Sector focus – How will changing climate affect Scottish farms? 

32.06:- Management Matters - Optimising grassland management. 

35.34:- Input costs - Fertiliser cost and usage update. 

Related FAS Resources 

https://www.fas.scot/publication/agribusiness-news-march-2024/  

Other Links: 

National good food nation plan 

Rural Payments Website 

Delivering Net Zero for Scotland’s Buildings 

Proposals for a Heat in Buildings Bill: Consultation 

Briefing Note 45- December 2023 

Briefing Note 46- February 2024 

Timber Price Indices from Forest Research 

Characteristics of top performing farms in the UK 2024-dairy.pdf 

For more information, visit 

www.FAS.scot 

Twitter: @FASScot 

Facebook: @FASScot 

 National Advice Hub 

Phone: 0300 323 0161 

Email: advice@fas.scot 

Show Notes  

00.44:-News in Brief 

02.35:-Policy Briefs - BVD Eradication Scheme & Small Producers Pilot Fund 

07.24:-Arable Wheat markets under pressure. 

11.28:-Beef - Cull cows coming into their own. 

14.28:-Sheep - Antipodean trading – who to watch out for. 

18.26:- Sector Focus – Data - Why is what the EU does still important? 

23.12 :-Milk - Tough times ahead 

28.11:- Sector focus – Soils - Do you pass the pH test? 

32.57:- Input costs - Calves are the future of the dairy sector 

37.50:- Management Matters – Applying for a Farm Tenancy 

FAS Resources 

Agribusiness News February 2024 | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot) 

Other Links: 

Preparing for Sustainable Farming portal on Rural Payments and Services Website.   

Rural Support (Simplification and Improvement) (Scotland) Regulations 2023 

BVD online consultation 

Small Producers Pilot Fund Steering Group - gov.scot (www.gov.scot)

Good Food Nation online consultation 

https://www.fas.scot/article/post-purchase-bull-management/ 

Farm Accounts Data Network to Farm Sustainability Data Network 

Scottish Agriculture emissions data and nitrogen usage 

Dairy Herd Benchmarking Data 

The Scottish Land Matching Service 

New Entrant Agriculture Tenancies 

Agricultural Tenancies | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Scottish Land Commission 

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot 

Twitter: @FASScot 

Facebook: @FASScot 

National Advice Hub 

Phone: 0300 323 0161 

Email: advice@fas.scot 

Show Notes  

00.48:-News in Brief 

01.57:-Policy Briefs - Roundup of 2023 policies & bills, changes to 2024 AECS 

08.31:-Arable - Record high global production in 2023, distilling capacity increases. 

14.35:-Beef - Reduced availability and calf crop going into 2024. 

19.08:-Sheep - Strong export outlook, competition with Australia. 

22.37:- Sector Focus – Oil outlook & energy transition 

27.49 :-Milk - Markets push prices down, like supply; 2024 optimism 

34.38:- Global Trends - Markets slowly recovering from pandemic and conflict disruption 

46.40:- Management Matters - New Scottish budget & financial update 

FAS Resources 

Agribusiness News January 2024 | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Other Links: 

Hunting with Dogs (Scotland) 2023 Bill 

New definition for TB isolation 

TB Compensation 

Asulam (Asulox) 

Preparing for Sustainable Farming  PSF 

Animal Health and Welfare Scheme 

Windsor Framework 

Home Office Control of Poisons and Explosives Precursors Regulations 2023 

Short-Term Lets Licence 

‘Rent a Room Scheme’. 

Wildlife Management and Muirburn (Scotland) Bill 

Moveable Transactions (Scotland) Bill 

Agriculture and Rural Communities (Scotland) Bill 

Good Food Nation (Scotland) Act 

Land Reform (Scotland) Bill 

Agri-Environment Climate Scheme 

Cost of Living (Tenant Protection) Act 

Agricultural Reform Route Map 

Farm Management Handbook Publication 

Farm Management Handbook - www.sac.co.uk/fmh  or contact us on 01835 823322  

fmh@sac.co.uk.  

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot 

Twitter: @FASScot 

Facebook: @FASScot 

National Advice Hub 

Phone: 0300 323 0161 

Email: advice@fas.scot 

00.47:- News in Brief 

02.38:- Policy Briefs - Practical Training Funds, & Autumn Statement 

07.11:- Arable - The Early Bird favours Spring over Winter cropping. 

11.02:- Beef - Like a Puppy, Beef is not just for Christmas 

15.20:- Sheep - Lambs are talking Turkey!  & Vet Attestation 

19.20:- Sector Focus – Pigs. Pressure on price due to weaker domestic demand 

24.40 :- Milk - Lower production volumes but increasing demand 

30.00:- Sector Focus – The countdown is on to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2032   

35.41:- Input Costs - Ewe management 

40.46:- Management Matters - Dyscalculia, Dyslexia & Meares Irlen Syndrome 

FAS Resources 

Agribusiness News December 2023 | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot) 

Other Links: 

Agriculture and Rural Communities (Scotland) Bill   

Bellwin Scheme 

Rural Payments and Services 

LANTRA Skills Hub 

EarTags_in_Sheep_and_Cattle_in_Scotland_2nd_Wave (onlinesurveys.ac.uk) 

Forestry Grant Scheme 

Defra QA - vet attestations for POAO exports to the EU (v2).pdf (windows.net) 

Dyslexia Scotland checklist 

RSABI 

Dyslexia Scotland 

RSABI’s 24-hour freephone Helpline - 0808 1234 555.  

RSABI are proud to be working with Dyslexia Scotland and backing #dyslexiaawarenessweek - YouTube

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot 

Twitter: @FASScot 

Facebook: @FASScot 

National Advice Hub 

Phone: 0300 323 0161 

Email: advice@fas.scot 

Show Notes  

00.47:-News in Brief 

02.35:-Policy Briefs - RSABI aid funds, Ag and Rural Communities Bill 

07.03:-Arable - Markets continue to fall despite efforts to stabilise 

11.02:-Beef - Prices upturning to near spring peak  

14.52:-Sheep - Lamb defies trend for reduced consumption of other meats  

17.51:- Sector Focus – Land price update 

22.34 :-Milk - Prices rising slowly but behind autumn ‘22 

28.14:- Sector Focus – Croft diversification 

34.30:- Input Costs - Soil health 

39.12:- Management Matters - Digital Dairy Chain and Farm Management Handbook 

FAS Resources 

Agribusiness News November 2023 | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot) 

Other Links: 

https://www.gov.scot/publications/results-scottish-agricultural-census-june-2023/ 

Consultation on the Agricultural and Rural Communities (Scotland) Bill 

Call for Views on the Agriculture and Rural Communities (Scotland) Bill Financial Memorandum. 

RSABI Flooding Crisis Fund. Tel 080 1234 555  

Forage Aid 

forageaid@rsabi.org.uk 

Agriculture and Rural Communities (Scotland) Bill 

Agricultural Reform List of Measures (ruralpayments.org) 

Agricultural Reform Programme (ARP) - Volunteer to take part in research and design 

https://foodanddrink.scot/ 

Regional Food Fund (RFF) - Application 

info@digitaldairychain.co.uk 

Farm Management Handbook Tel 01835 823322 or email the FMHB team on fmh@sac.co.uk   

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot 

Twitter: @FASScot 

Facebook: @FASScot 

National Advice Hub 

Phone: 0300 323 0161 

Email: advice@fas.scot 

Show Notes  

00.48:-News in Brief 

03.01:-Policy Briefs - Housing Policy changes, AECS 2024 & Potato Exports  

07.46:-Arable - Wheat futures not looking rosy. 

11.45:-Beef - Tight supplies driving prices. 

16.37:-Sheep - Let’s shout about Scottish lamb 

19.42:- Sector Focus – Science Based Targets helping to reduce GHGs 

24.46 :-Milk - Some positivity in the dairy markets 

30.27:- Sector Focus – Dairy - Focus on costs you can control  

36.33:- Input Costs - Feed - Markets remain Bearish 

41.18:- Management Matters - Cash is King 

FAS Resources 

Agribusiness News October 2023 | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot) 

Other Links: 

Cost of Living (Tenant Protection) Act 

‘Rent a Room Scheme’ 

Agri-environment-climate-scheme 

Milk forecasting calculator | AHDB

FAS Benchmarking Tool 

FAS website 

RSABI 

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot 

Twitter: @FASScot 

Facebook: @FASScot 

National Advice Hub 

Phone: 0300 323 0161 

Email: advice@fas.scot 

Show Notes  

00.48.:- News in Brief 

02.19:- Policy Briefs - Fertiliser purchases, wildlife management & animal health & welfare support  

07.31:- Arable - Struggles with quality following patchy summer. 

13.17:- Beef - Margins remain tight as prices fall. 

16.46:- Sheep - Competitive pricing from Auz and NZ 

20.06:- Sector Focus – Bull fertility  

25.12 :- Milk - Negative sentiment in dairy markets continue  

30.02:- Sector Focus – Buffalo farming 

36.09:- Input Costs - Alternative energy 

41.11:- Management Matters - Decision-grade data from nature tech 

FAS Resources 

Agribusiness News September 2023 | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Other Links: 

Evidence to Support Development of a New Rural Support Scheme for Scotland: A summary of written outputs  

Control of Poisons and Explosives Precursors Regulations 2023 

Wildlife Management and Muirburn Bill 

Protecting Scotland’s wildlife - gov.scot (www.gov.scot) 

Rural Payments Website 

Preparing for Sustainable Farming (PSF)   

Energy Performance Certificate reform consultation 

Investing in data for nature-based projects - a case study from Lauriston Farm 

Lauriston Farm 

Decision Grade Data (decisiongradeiot.com)

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot 

Twitter: @FASScot 

Facebook: @FASScot 

National Advice Hub 

Phone: 0300 323 0161 

Email: advice@fas.scot 

Show Notes  

00.48.:-News in Brief 

02.43:-Policy Briefs - Trade Deals, Wide Loads and Additional support measures for the Crofting Counties 

08.39:-Arable - Extreme weather across Europe impacting on harvests. 

13.03:-Beef - Lower summer demand affecting prices  

17.34:-Sheep - Room for growth! 

20.41:- Sector Focus – Sheep - Predatory lessons to be learned from Europe 

25.18 :-Milk - Scottish dairy farmers are becoming a rare beast. 

31.12:- Inputs – Marketing - Social media ‘in da house’ 

36.52:- Sector Focus – Pigs - A summer of optimism 

43.02:- Management Matters - Net Zero plans for the ‘water of life’ 

FAS Resources 

Agribusiness News August 2023 | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot) 

Other Links: 

Impact on Scottish agriculture of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs)  

Agricultural Machinery Wide Loads. 

avian influenza protection zone 

BirdTrack 

Dead wild birds service 

Rural Payments website. 

Islands Cost Crisis Emergency Fund 

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot 

Twitter: @FASScot 

Facebook: @FASScot 

National Advice Hub 

Phone: 0300 323 0161 

Email: advice@fas.scot 

00.49.:-News in Brief 

02.22:-Policy Briefs - Agricultural Reform Route Map; bracken control 

07.20:-Arable - Wheat production falls from 2022 peak 

10.48:-Beef - Fall in finished beef price 

14.31:-Sheep - Adult slaughtering and exports increase 

17.01:- Sector Focus - Potato update 

22.11 :-Milk - 2023 output up from 2022

27.34:- Input costs - Soil compaction and grassland yield loss 

33.17:- Management Matters - Climate progress report update 

39.12:- Sector Focus – Having bees on farmland

FAS Resources 

https://www.fas.scot/publication/agribusiness-news-july-2023/  

Other Links: 

New conditions for farm support payments from 2025,  

Response to the Climate Change Committee’s 2022 annual progress report  

Just Transition and Land Use in agriculture,  

Scottish Natural Capital Accounts for 2023,  

Agricultural Reform Route Map to 2032,  

10-year Food and Drink stability strategy 

Vision for Agriculture. 

Agricultural Reform Route Map 

Calving Intervals in Scotland's Cattle Population report 

MyHerdStats 

SASA website. 

VESS Soil Chart 

Technical note-Use of a sward lifter to improve grassland soil compaction. 

Bee Base 

Lorraine Johnston, SRUC Bee Advisor for Scotland, lorraine.johnston@sruc.ac.uk 

SRUC Podcasts  

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot 

Twitter: @FASScot 

Facebook: @FASScot 

National Advice Hub 

Phone: 0300 323 0161 

Email: advice@fas.scot 

Show Notes

00.47.:-News in Brief

02.29:-Policy Briefs - Seasonal Workers, National Insurance, June Census

06.57:-Arable - Black Sea trade extension impacting on markets

12.09:-Beef - Beef price steadies

16.02:-Sheep - Lamb demand over Easter boosts prices

19.55:- Inputs: Grassland - Mixed species swards

25.44 :-Milk - Dairy farmer numbers down but milk volumes up

30.50:- Sector Focus - Biodiversity - Land sharing or land sparing?

37.19:- Management Matters - A farm is not just a farm

42.57:- Sector Focus – Diversification - Farm Tours

FAS Resources

Agribusiness News June 2023 | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Other Links:

Moveable Transactions (Scotland) Bill – Bills (proposed laws) – Scottish Parliament | Scottish Parliament Website

Check your National Insurance record - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

Affordable Housing Supply Programme - More homes - gov.scot (www.gov.scot)

June Agricultural Census Registration

Scottish Agricultural Census - News, guidance and sample forms - gov.scot (www.gov.scot)

Scottish Beef Event - Schedule of event - Events | Scottish Beef Association

SAC Consulting Elgin office 01343 548787

Sheep in the Uplands Tickets, Tue 4 Jul 2023 at 10:15 | Eventbrite

Grassland and Herbal Leys Species Guide

30 by 30 explained | NatureScot

Peatland ACTION Project | NatureScot

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Show Notes  

00.45:-News in Brief 

02.51:-Policy Briefs - New TB controls, minimum wage rates & UK Asia trade deal 

07.49:-Arable - All eyes on the growing crop 

12.41:-Beef - Record breaking prices 

16.02:-Sheep - The Midas Touch 

19.40:-Sector Focus - Precisely what is trending in 2023 

25.44 :-Milk - Milk price continues to slide as spring milk volumes rise  

31.50:-Management Matters - Energy self- sufficiency options 

37.22:-Sector Focus - Beef - Should we be worried about falling suckler cow numbers? 

40.33:-Input Costs - Silage - it pays not to be ‘Average’ 

FAS Resources 

https://www.fas.scot/publication/agribusiness-news-may-2023/ 

Other Links: 

The Tuberculosis (Scotland) Order 2023 

Bovine TB Advice and Guidance 

Agricultural wages - a guide for workers and employers: twenty seventh edition 

Preparing for Sustainable Farming support page 

To give us your feedback on our podcasts please call 300 323 0161, or email advice@fas.scot  

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot 

Twitter: @FASScot 

Facebook: @FASScot 

National Advice Hub 

Phone: 0300 323 0161 

Email: advice@fas.scot 

Along with our regular monthly updates on policy briefs, cereals, beef, sheep and milk, in this edition we are also bringing you 2 sector overviews on the budget and Northern Ireland Protocol. We will also be bringing you news on the 2022-23 Farm Business Survey and seasonal workers. 

Show Notes  

00.49:-News in Brief 

02.44:-Policy Briefs - SFA, EFA, Small Producers Fund  

06.44:-Cereals and Oilseeds - Wheat prices beginning to bounce back 

10.55:-Beef - Tight supply sees solid price. 

14.16:-Sheep - Input costs affecting performance.  

17.14:-Sector Focus - Budget update 

22.35:-Milk - February boost to milk output 

27.58:-Management Matters - 2022-23 Farm Business Survey  

32.15:-Sector Focus - Northern Ireland Protocol Update 

37.44:-Input Costs - Seasonal Workers 

FAS Resources  

Agribusiness News April 2023 | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot) 

Other Links: 

Small Producers Pilot Fund 

Croft House Grant Scheme.    

rachel.cook@sruc.ac.uk   

Farm Business Income Estimates for Scotland 2021-2022 

DEFRA England FBI 2022-2023 forecast. 

SAWB - 0131 244 9750 or sawb@gov.scot 

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot 

Twitter: @FASScot 

Facebook: @FASScot 

National Advice Hub 

Phone: 0300 323 0161 

Email: advice@fas.scot