The new NATIH is valued at £21 million (€24,3 million).
University of Stirling
The delegation from the Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences (CAFS) has visited the new National Aquaculture Technology and Innovation Hub (NATIH) at the University of Stirling's Institute of Aquaculture in Scotland to learn about its new and pioneering research facilities.
This visit is part of the Chinese Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs' commitment to advancing fishery sciences and positioning the country as a key player in shaping the ongoing evolution of global aquaculture.
To be more precise, aquaculture in China is the fastest-growing in the world, with a global growth rate of around 8% and accounting for nearly two-thirds of global production, according to data from the University of Stirling.
"China is a major player in the global aquaculture industry, and its growth trajectory is set to continue. By working collaboratively to fully utilise the combined strengths of our knowledge and facilities, we can play a critical role in ensuring that the sector is informed by the latest research and development," explained Professor Trevor Telfer, Acting Head of the Institute of Aquaculture at the University of Stirling.
Additionally, Professor Yu Shuzhou, Head of Discipline Inspection Group at the CAFS, said: "As China’s national academy dedicated to fishery sciences, the Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences is pleased to note that both sides share extensive common interests. We firmly believe that this collaboration will enable us to achieve mutually beneficial outcomes in both research and innovation."
The new NATIH is valued at £21 million (€24,3 million) and offers a combination of research facilities, technical capacity, and academic expertise unique in Europe, including the ability to replicate freshwater aquaculture environments from anywhere in the world.
The investments come from the UK Government through the Stirling and Clackmannanshire City Region Deal, the Wolfson Foundation, and the University of Stirling itself.
In addition, the Stirling and Clackmannanshire City Region Deal includes £90.2 million (€104,6 million) in investments from the UK and Scottish Governments to drive inclusive economic growth across the region.
Over a period of 10 to 15 years, regional partners plan to invest up to £123.8 million, resulting in a total deal worth more than £214 million (€248,2 million).
