© SAIC
New figures from HMRC reveal that demand for the premium seafood product continues to rise, with exports reaching 48 countries in 2024.
"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," commented Tavish Scott, Salmon Scotland CEO, in a press release.
Growth was particularly strong in Asia, where markets such as China and Taiwan saw increases of more than 60 percent, reflecting Scottish salmon’s global reputation. France remains the largest importer, accounting for 55 percent of total export value, while the United States follows at 27 percent.
The previous record of £618 million, set in 2019, has now been significantly surpassed, driven by heightened international demand. Scottish salmon, farmed in the pristine waters of the north west Highlands, Argyll and Bute, the Western Isles, Orkney, and Shetland, remains the top export by volume through Heathrow Airport, ensuring rapid global distribution.
"The farmed salmon sector is very important to our economy, providing well paid, high skilled jobs in Scotland’s rural and island communities. The Scottish Government is fully committed to working with industry to aid sector growth in overseas markets, whilst solidifying their premier status in domestic markets. In doing so, we will continue to drive sustainable growth, which will have significant economic benefits," said Kate Forbes, Scotland's Deputy First Minister.
