
New figures show that salmon exports from Scotland rose by 33 per cent to £941 million in the rolling 12 months to the end of June. Meanwhile, in the first six months of 2025 alone, exports were worth £528 million, putting the UK’s largest food export on track for a record-breaking year.
The figures were published as Scottish salmon farmers prepare to tap into the lucrative Indian market following the free trade agreement negotiated by the UK Government.
Significant increases in value were seen in the US, China, Taiwan and Canada, reflecting strong growth in these key markets. US demand for Scottish salmon continues to rise steeply, but uncertainty remains over the global impact of tariffs, with First Minister John Swinney raising the issue during a recent meeting with President Trump.
The recent UK-EU trade deal opens doors for higher salmon exports to Europe, but US tariffs are pushing rival producers to focus more on European markets.
Meanwhile, producers are exploring new opportunities in India, the world’s third-largest fish market, following the signing of a free trade deal that will slash tariffs on exports.
Salmon Scotland’s analysis of HMRC figures, comparing values in the first half of 2025 with the same period in 2024, shows exports to:
- US up 110 per cent to £190 million
- China up 75 per cent to £74 million
- Canada up 1,300 per cent to £21 million
- Taiwan up 45 per cent to £17 million
These figures suggest fresh, whole Scottish salmon exports could surpass the calendar record of £844 million set in 2024.
Responding to the latest figures, Tavish Scott, chief executive of Salmon Scotland, stated: “These latest export figures show another period of remarkable success for Scottish salmon. They reflect the hard work of our farmers and the growing global demand for our nutritious fish. With international sales approaching £1 billion, Scottish salmon continues to perform strongly on the world stage, especially in the US where demand remains robust.
“However, tariffs remain a significant barrier, costing the sector an estimated £30 million each year. Removing these tariffs would open up even greater opportunities for exporters and help secure long-term growth for Scottish salmon.”
UK Government Scotland Office Minister Kirsty McNeill added: “Scottish Salmon, our support for the sector and the trade deals we are securing, are an important part of our Plan for Change to drive economic growth and put more money in people’s pockets right across the UK.”