Significant growth was reported in the US, China, Taiwan, and Singapore, reflecting the expanding reach of Scottish salmon in these high-potential markets.
Scottish salmon exports increased by 41% in the first half of 2024, fueled by robust demand in key markets across Asia and the United States.
New figures show that Scotland’s salmon industry, the UK’s largest food export sector, generated £431 million in sales between January and June, underscoring the global appetite for premium seafood.
France remains the leading destination for Scottish salmon, with sales nearly doubling as post-pandemic demand recovery continued. Despite a slight dip in sales to processing hubs within the European Union, overall EU export sales climbed by 57% to £272 million, while non-EU sales increased by 21% to £159 million.
The UK Government welcomed the news, with Trade Policy Minister Douglas Alexander highlighting the sector’s vital contribution to the economy.
Salmon Scotland, the industry body, suggested that if this growth trajectory continues, 2024 could set a new record for international sales. Tavish Scott, Chief Executive of Salmon Scotland, attributed the success to the dedication of Scotland’s salmon farmers and the global recognition of the product’s quality.
“These latest export figures demonstrate the remarkable success of Scottish salmon, which remains the UK’s top food export,” said Scott. “The industry’s commitment to sustainable farming and animal welfare ensures that Scottish salmon continues to be celebrated worldwide, supporting the UK economy and sustaining jobs in remote coastal communities.”
In the broader European market, exports to France surged by 91% to £261 million, while US sales increased by 18% to £91 million. China saw a 26% rise to £42 million, and Taiwan and Singapore recorded gains of 41% and 57%, respectively.
With fresh, whole Scottish salmon export sales reaching £706 million in the 12 months to June, the industry is on track to surpass the previous calendar record of £617 million set in 2019. The volume of fish transported also rose by 12%, indicating higher harvest volumes year-on-year.
Premium ‘Label Rouge’ salmon, which accounts for around 12% of exports, is poised for further growth, with aspirations to increase this share to 15% by 2026, particularly in Germany, Spain, and Italy.
Douglas Alexander, UK Government Minister for Trade Policy, praised the industry: “These figures are hugely encouraging and reflect the strong global demand for our high-quality salmon, particularly in dynamic markets like Asia and America. The success of the salmon industry is a testament to the hard work of those involved, and it plays a crucial role in driving economic growth across the UK.”
The Scottish salmon industry supports 2,500 direct jobs while also sustaining an additional 10,000 positions, with the domestic market valued at around £1.2 billion annually. The sector’s Gross Value Added (GVA) is estimated at £766 million, highlighting its significant impact on both the Scottish and UK economies.
