© Salmon Scotland
Scottish salmon exports have surged to £645 million, reaching their highest level in five years as international demand continues to grow. New HMRC data analysed by trade body Salmon Scotland shows that in the first four months of 2024 alone, the value of exports soared by £65 million to £250 million - a 36 per cent increase on the same period last year.
The increase in value of Scottish salmon coincided with an increase in export volumes, which rose by a significant 35 percent. Much of this volume was destined for the European market, which imported 26,000 tonnes of salmon across 40 countries within the first four months of 2024. France remains the largest market for Scottish salmon, importing £143 million of Scottish salmon so far this year.
Salmon Scotland said that, if current growth continues, 2024 could set a record for international sales, further confirming salmon’s position as the UK’s top food export. This estimation comes as the trade body calls for the next UK Government to reduce red tape introduced due to Brexit, with the organisation publishing its own manifesto earlier this month. In the manifesto Salmon Scotland is urging whoever wins the upcoming general election to improve relations with the European Union to boost exports.
The trade body also wants to see the introduction of electronic export health certificates and the elimination of paperwork associated with exporting salmon to Europe, which has been costing salmon farmers an estimated £3 million every year since Brexit.
“Given the critical importance of revenue generation by our farmers, particularly during the cost-of-living crisis, whoever is handed the keys to Number 10 must streamline the export process for fresh Scottish salmon, ensuring quicker delivery to our customers,” said Salmon Scotland chief executive Tavish Scott, in a press release.
“We eagerly anticipate working with the next UK Government to expand exports and boost national prosperity,” he added.
