In 2012, UK exports of fresh salmon reached their second highest annual figure ever, with a 16 per cent increase since 2010. Although overall exports fell slightly from their peak in 2011, figures remain significantly up on two years ago and, crucially, have increased year-on-year in the world’s expanding economies.
Because of a strategic focus by the Scottish salmon industry exports to the Far East have increased 64 per cent between 2011 and 2012. This is also the first year that SSPO have published collated figures for Brazil, India, China and South Africa, collectively known as the BRICS countries. These show a 41 per cent increase in exports since 2011, showing the global appeal of Scottish farmed salmon and the industry’s focus on expanding markets.
Speaking at the European Seafood Exposition (ESE) in Brussels on 24 April, SSPO Chief Executive Scott Landsburgh said: “Our members have done a fantastic job in difficult economic circumstances and by focussing on those markets with the highest growth potential, achieved the second highest year of exports on record and provided the perfect platform for future success.”
He went on to say: “Like any farmed food, Scottish salmon is subject to price fluctuations and this has been a more difficult year in that regard but what has to be remembered is that our members are not only selling food abroad, they are selling Scotland’s reputation for quality. We want to work with our associates in the Scottish Government, Marine Scotland and SEPA, to ensure that Scottish farmed salmon maintains its reputation for the highest standards whilst being a major contributor to Scotland’s economic success.”
