The latest figures from UK overseas trade statistics, reveal surprise declines amidst the overwhelmingly strong performance of Scotland’s salmon industry.
Scottish salmon exports saw a significant boost in the first half of 2024, with global sales of whole, fresh, and chilled Atlantic salmon reaching £431 million. This marks a substantial increase of £125 million, or 41%, compared to the same period in 2023, underscoring the growing demand for Scottish salmon in key international markets.
The latest figures, sourced from Salmon Scotland and HMRC UK overseas trade statistics, reveal a strong performance within both the European Union and non-EU markets. Exports to the EU surged by 57% to £272 million, while non-EU markets recorded a 21% increase, totaling £159 million.
However, not all markets showed positive growth. Exports to Poland, Ireland, and the Netherlands experienced significant declines. Sales to Poland dropped by 71% to £5 million, while Ireland and the Netherlands saw reductions of 54% and 81%, respectively.
The breakdown of UK exports of whole, fresh, and chilled Atlantic salmon from January to June 2024 is as follows:
- Global: £431m (+£125m / +41%)
- EU: £272m (+£98m / +57%)
- Non-EU: £159m (+£27m / +21%)
- France: £261m (+£125m / +91%)
- United States: £91m (+£14m / +18%)
- China: £42m (+£9m / +26%)
- Taiwan: £12m (+£3m / +41%)
- Poland: £5m (-£12m / -71%)
- Singapore: £4m (+£2m / +57%)
- UAE: £2m (+£1m / +134%)
- Ireland: £2m (-£2m / -54%)
- Netherlands: £2m (-£7m / -81%)
