Exports

The largest food export from Scotland

Farmed salmon is the largest food exports from Scotland, the only significant producer within the European Union.  Its established, substantial overseas markets are worth over £220m per annum, underpinning its increasing importance to the domestic economy.

The export trade has been built solidly on the concept of Scottish provenance, the product’s PGI status and the premium taste, quality and character of the fish.  In 2011, exports of fresh salmon increased by 20%, rising to 95,638 tonnes from 78,612 tonnes the previous year.  This is the third consecutive year that exports have risen as global demand for the healthy and sustainable protein continues to grow.

As consumer demands have shifted to place greater emphasis on convenience and health, the specification, presentation, packing and labelling of the product have been adjusted to meet market requirements. Scottish fresh salmon reached some 60 countries worldwide in 2011.

Notable importers are USA, France, Belgium/Luxembourg, Netherlands, Germany, Italy, Spain, Irish Republic, Eastern Europe and Japan.   An agreement was recently concluded between the Scottish and Chinese governments allowing Scottish salmon exports into China for the first time.