According to figures the Scottish Salmon Producers Organization (SSPO) released on Monday, fresh Scottish salmon exports reached a record 78,611 metric tons in 2010, up 20 percent from 2009. This is the second consecutive year that Scottish salmon exports have increased.
Seven of Scotland’s top 10 export markets grew in terms of volume. Europe remains the No. 1 export market, with France its top importer, at 26,475 metric tons of Scottish salmon last year. The United States is now the No. 1 destination beyond Europe, at 31,924 metric tons. Emerging markets include Belgium, Switzerland, the Netherlands, eastern Europe and the Middle East. Scottish salmon now reaches 54 countries worldwide.
“Scottish farmed salmon is a top quality, healthy and sustainable protein in high demand at home and overseas. Exports have increased over 650 percent during the last 20 years,” said SSPO CEO Scott Landsburgh.
“The strong performance demonstrates that the salmon farming sector is playing a key role in the export-led economic recovery,” he added. “With the global salmon market continuing to outpace supply, it is good news for jobs and investment in many parts of Scotland, including remote, rural communities in the Highlands and Islands.”
