Scottish firms are pressing ahead with plans to attend the world’s biggest seafood trade show later this month, despite ongoing security concerns in host city Brussels.
Industry body Seafood Scotland said there had been no call-offs from among the contingent taking shape to promote their products at Seafood Expo Global, which takes place in Belgium’s capital from April 26-28.
Iceland’s largest fishing company, HB Grandi, has already decided not to participate due to security concerns in the wake of last month’s terror attacks in the city.
A Seafood Scotland spokeswoman said: “As it stands at present, Scotland will be represented at the Global Seafood Expo in Brussels later this month.
“Seafood Scotland is in close contact with all the relevant authorities, including the show’s organisers, to keep abreast of the latest situation and the increased security measures that are emerging.
“In turn, we are keeping all confirmed and potential Scottish delegates up to speed – none as yet have withdrawn as a result of security concerns.”
The expo’s marketing department could not be contact but a series of updates on the show’s website highlights a tightening-up of security for the annual event this year.
“We have worked with the city of Brussels for many years on security around Seafood Expo Global/Seafood Processing Global,” one bulletin said, adding: “The city is taking exceptional measures to maximise safety and help with business continuity.
“We have spent the last six months enhancing and strengthening security given recent world events. At this time, there are no plans to cancel this year’s exposition.
“Tightened security measures are in place for the expo days … and additional measures are being assessed as the situation in the city evolves.”
People attending the show have been warned to expect bag searches, metal detector screening and a bigger security and law enforcement presence, including police and bomb detection dogs.
The show organisers have also set up a special hotline – on 0032 2 551 5473 – for any questions about transport in Brussels during the event.
HB Grandi said 27 of its employees who were due to attend the event would not now be travelling to Belgium.
It added: “After careful consideration, HB Grandi management feels it is not justifiable to send employees to Brussels as is it unclear whether their safety can be sufficiently secured following the recent terrorist actions in the city.
“In addition, being in Brussels can potentially cause employees and their families discomfort and anxiety. The company plans to exhibit next year.”
