Around 11,000 farmers who operate in Scotland's most remote areas will receive loan payments worth more than £24m.
Less Favoured Area Support Scheme (LFASS) loan payments are currently underway, with thousands of farmers and crofters expected to receive payment in the coming weeks.
Many have taken the opportunity to receive up to 90% of their 2018 entitlement under the national loan scheme announced earlier this year.
In total, 5,532 farmers and crofters will receive payment under this payment tranche, with further payment runs being made in the coming days and weeks.
Rural Economy Secretary, Fergus Ewing confirmed the nationally-funded loan following criticism from farmers over Scottish government cuts to LFASS.
The scheme is seen as a vital financial boost to those farmers who are trying forge a living out of some of the hardest land in the country.
Mr Ewing said: “I firmly believe we must help those who need help the most, and can confirm that payments will begin to arrive in bank accounts in the coming days.
“We are working hard to provide as much certainty to support farmers and crofters as we can. This money will provide a welcome cash injection to businesses and the wider rural economy.
“With further payments being made in the coming weeks, I am confident that the majority of awards will be made by the end of June in line with our payment schedule,” he said.
Mr Ewing added that Brexit continues to present the 'biggest threat' to the Scottish farming industry.
“The Scottish government continues to work with others to further extend Article 50 to avoid a catastrophic ‘no deal’ outcome and allow time for a second referendum on EU membership.”
The deadline for applying for a Less Favoured Area Support Scheme loan is midnight on Friday, 12th April 2019.
