Scottish salmon exports reach record high of £844m
Scottish salmon exports reached a record £844 million in 2024, a 45 per cent increase year-on-year, maintaining its position as the UK’s top food export.
Data published by HM Revenue & Customs today confirm that the growth was driven by increased demand in Asian markets, where sales rose by over 60 per cent, particularly in China and Taiwan. France remained the largest market, accounting for 55 per cent of total exports, followed by the United States at 27 per cent.
The latest figures surpass the previous record of £618 million set in 2019. Exports were sent to 48 countries last year, with the majority of production sourced from farms in the north west Highlands, Argyll and Bute, the Western Isles, Orkney and Shetland.
Scottish salmon is the largest food export by volume through Heathrow Airport, where it is shipped on scheduled flights to international destinations to maintain freshness.
Improved survival rates on salmon farms contributed to the increase in exports. Survival reached a four-year high of 82.3 per cent in 2024, following multi-million-pound investments in technology to enhance animal welfare.
The industry directly employs around 2,500 people in coastal communities, with the supply chain supporting a further 10,000 jobs. The sector generates significant economic contributions to both the Scottish and UK economies.
Tavish Scott, chief executive of trade body Salmon Scotland, said: “Today’s record exports demonstrate the increasing global demand for Scottish salmon, which is rightly recognised as the best in the world and increasingly sought after by discerning consumers.
“Salmon farmers in our rural and coastal communities go out every day to raise healthy fish which end up on plates in dozens of countries. Producers have also invested hundreds of millions of pounds to further boost already world-leading welfare standards.”
Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes said: “These exceptional figures clearly demonstrate the surging global demand for Scottish salmon, which is rightly recognised as a premium high-quality product. The farmed salmon sector is very important to our economy, providing well-paid, high-skilled jobs in Scotland’s rural and island communities.”
Scotland Office Minister Kirsty McNeill added: “Salmon is the jewel in the crown of Scotland’s world-class produce and today’s figures underline its global reputation for unrivalled quality. A key part of the UK Government’s Brand Scotland initiative is selling the very best of Scotland to the world.”
The Scottish Government has pledged continued support for the industry in expanding international markets while promoting sustainable growth.
