Aquaculture for all

Salmon Scotland eyes increased exports to India

Atlantic Salmon Tariffs and trade deals +6 more

Scotland’s salmon farming sector expects fresh opportunities to export more fish to India, in the wake of a free trade deal between India and the UK. 

A man throwing feed pellets into a fish pen.
Tavish Scott, head of Salmon Scotland

© Salmon Scotland

Speaking as UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer visits India this week, Salmon Scotland chief executive Tavish Scott stated: “The Prime Minister’s visit shows the exciting opportunities opening up in India." 

“With tariffs set to fall from 30 percent to zero, Scottish salmon can reach a whole new market while boosting growth at home.

“We’re working closely with the UK Government and Indian partners to make sure our premium salmon reaches more tables across India – supporting coastal communities and showcasing the UK’s top food export.

“This is a real chance to strengthen ties between our two countries and share Scotland’s world-class produce with a growing market.”

Although India is the world’s third-largest fish market, with domestic use reaching nearly 12 million tonnes in 2021, most fish eaten is currently locally sourced. Imports focus on premium seafood in major cities such as Delhi and Mumbai, where demand for healthy, high-quality produce is rising. Scottish salmon fits well into this high-end market, says Salmon Scotland.

At present, India does not register on the list of nearly 50 countries where Scottish salmon is exported in significant quantity, but there has been a recent boom in the Asian market. Exports to China were up 60 prcent last year and volumes to Taiwan more than doubled – contributing to record international sales of more than £840 million.