Review of the Amended Economic Link License Condition
A review of the impact of the Scottish Government's economic link licence condition following the introduction of amended arrangements in 2023.
6. Quota Gifting
Another area amended in 2023 was in relation to quota gifting. Specifically, the rate of quota gifts sought from vessels increased from 15% to 26% of the gap in landings between what is caught and the landings target.
It was anticipated that the change in policy would result in an increase in the amount of gifted quota available for distribution and in anticipation of this increase (which could be substantial if pelagic vessels decide on this method of fulfilling economic link criteria). However, though there was a slight increase in available gifted quota in 2025 (arising from vessel landings for 2024) tonnages available have been broadly consistent with previous years. Given the limited quota opportunity available, the Marine Directorate has continued to allocate this gifted quota opportunity to the 10 metre and under sector.