Seafood exporters will be required to comply with new food standards regulations from next year. Firms which export fish and other aquaculture products for human consumption to the EU must fill out an Export Health Certificate (EHC) from January 15, 2022.

       Kate Higgins, a special adviser to Nicola Sturgeon on rural affairs, food, islands and transport, issued the reminder on Twitter.

       She wrote: “Brexit just keeps giving to our hard pressed exporters but as a responsible government @Scotsgov is working hard to help them get the message about changes and giving them time to prepare.

       “If you export farmed or caught seafood, please follow the link and share too.”

       The changes mean seafood products must be certified by the EHC rather than a Food Competent Certifying Officer.

       Paris has repeatedly threatened sanctions against the UK, but backed down earlier this month and agreed to further talks.

       But, Olivier Lepretre, president of the organisation which represents fishermen's interests in northern France, has warned “action is imminent”.

       Meanwhile, Stephane Fournier, one of the dozens of fishermen awaiting a licence, warned UK ports and access to EU markets could be denied.

       He said: “All trans-Channel traffic (and) all freight in all the ports of France will be blocked.

       "Britain wants to get access to the European market? They should give us the licences. If not, we will cut their access.”

       Downing Street has this afternoon confirmed the position of the UK has not changed.

       A spokesman for the Prime Minister said: "We will provide additional licences when the requisite evidence is supplied, we're not negotiating over changing that approach.”

       Speaking on Monday evening, France's Europe minister Clement Beaune said he wants a "constructive solution", but insisted Paris has “all options on the table”.