According to Salmon Scotland, sales of Scottish salmon could be set for a record year after generating £431 million in the first six months of 2024.
Between January and June, Scottish salmon has reportedly generated £431 million in value, with Salmon Scotland labelling it as the UK’s largest food export.
The volume of fish transported also increased by 12%, which suggested increased harvest volumes compared to a year ago.
Salmon Scotland’s analysis of HMRC figures, comparing values in the first half of 2024 with the first half of 2023, show exports to:
- France up 91% to £261 million
- USA up 18% to £91 million
- China up 26% to £42 million
- Taiwan up 41% to £12 million
- Singapore up 57% to £4 million
In the 12 months to June, fresh, whole Scottish salmon export sales reached £706 million, up 17% year-on-year. Salmon Scotland said that this suggested export sales for the entirety of 2024 could surpass the calendar record figure of £617 million set in 2019.
Salmon Scotland said that the UK domestic market for salmon is valued at around £1.2 billion a year, and the sector’s Gross Value Added (GVA) is worth £766 million for the Scottish and UK economy.
UK Government welcomes figures
Trade Policy Minister Douglas Alexander has praised the sector’s contribution to the economy, with UK Government welcoming the figures.
UK Minister for Trade Policy, Douglas Alexander, said: “These figures are hugely encouraging and show strong demand for our high-quality salmon in Asia and America – some of the most exciting markets in the world.
“It’s a credit to those in the salmon industry across Scotland who work so hard to create such a revered product.
“Economic growth is at the heart of everything this UK Government does, which is why we are working hard to open up new markets for Scottish goods and services.”
“Both the UK and Scottish Governments acknowledge the potential for continued sustainable growth, positioning Scotland to lead the world in the blue economy and expand the availability of one of the most nutritious foods we have.”
Tavish Scott, chief executive of Salmon Scotland, said: “These latest export figures show another period of remarkable success for Scottish salmon, reflecting the hard work and dedication of our farmers and the growing global demand for our nutritious fish.
“Sustainably farmed in the waters off the Highlands and islands, with a top priority given to animal welfare, Scottish salmon’s exceptional quality is recognised worldwide, making it the UK’s top food export.
“Beyond generating hundreds of millions of pounds for the UK economy and creating thousands of jobs, Scottish salmon supports thriving remote coastal communities.
“Both the UK and Scottish Governments acknowledge the potential for continued sustainable growth, positioning Scotland to lead the world in the blue economy and expand the availability of one of the most nutritious foods we have.”
Deputy First Minister of Scotland, Kate Forbes, said: “These exceptional figures clearly demonstrate the surging global demand for Scottish salmon, which is correctly recognised as a premium high-quality product.
“The Scottish farmed salmon sector is important to our economy, providing well paid jobs in Scotland’s rural and island communities.
“The Scottish Government is fully committed to working with industry to aid sector growth in overseas markets, whilst solidifying their premier status in domestic markets. In doing so, we will continue to drive sustainable growth, which will have significant economic benefits.”
