Farmed salmon from Argyll & Bute was one of the biggest food success stories in 2010, according to the new boss of Scotlands food and drink industry body.
James Withers, Chief Executive of Scotland Food and Drink, said: Salmon from Lochs Creran, Linnhe, Spelve, Tuath and Melfort, to name but a few, is in high demand in current and emerging markets such as the France, USA, Ireland and China.
Whilst visiting Scottish Sea Farms processing facility in South Shian and a farm near Shuna, Mr Withers announced the top destinations for Scottish food exports in 2010.
The top markets for Scottish food were: France 275.7 million; Irish Republic 98.2 million; Spain 86.8 million; Germany 72.9 million; Italy 68.6 million, and; US 61.5m.
France, renowned around the world as the home of great food, is Scotland's biggest food export destination. Salmon accounts for the majority of exports to France; much of that comes from local farms like Shuna.
Scott Landsburgh, Chief Executive, Scottish Salmon Producers Organisation, said: 2010 was a record year for salmon exports. The sector has continued to defy global economic uncertainty in the first half of this year as demand continues to be high. Local farmers can be proud of their success as salmon is playing a major role in strengthening the Scottish economy.
Rory Conn, Sales and Commercial Manager, Scottish Sea Farms, said: The quality of our salmon is second to none and it's great news that it is cultivating an enviable international reputation. France is one of our number one overseas markets. Export growth is a good thing for our employees, our business, our suppliers and the local and national economies as a whole.
Scottish Salmon An Export Success
SCOTLAND, UK - Local salmon is a major Scottish export success, as the top destinations for Scottish food exports is revealed by Scotland's Food and Drink boss on a visit to local salmon farm.
