Exports of Scottish salmon grew by GBP 60 million (USD 99.5 million, EUR 75 million) in the first six months of the year — an additional 12,000 metric tons (MT) compared to the same time last year.
These data came from an independent survey of retail and foodservice buyers voted Scottish farmed salmon the best in the world for superior taste, quality and appearance. Scottish salmon was exported to 65 countries since January with the U.S. leading the way. An additional 5,000 MT of Scottish salmon was exported to the U.S., with a GBP 26 million (USD 43 million, EUR 32.5 million) increase in sales. This is a trend replicated in other key markets including France and China where export volumes have outstripped performance over the same period last year.
“This has been another strong period of growth for Scottish salmon producers and demonstrates just how important Scottish salmon has become in foreign markets and to the Scottish economy,” said Scott Landsburgh, Scottish Salmon Producers’ Organization CEO.
“Industry is committed to raising the profile of Scottish salmon in new and emerging markets and I think these results are proof that we are beginning to reap the rewards. We are developing both international markets and domestic opportunities in order to ensure long-lasting business growth.”
Since the beginning of the year, at a value of GBP 10 million (USD 16.6 million, EUR 12.5 million), Far East exports have increased by a quarter, taking their total value to a record GBP 47 million (USD 77.9 million, EUR 58.7 million). As trade links have grown, China has become a significant consumer of Scottish salmon, increasing from virtually nothing in 2010 to be worth almost GBP 34 million (USD 56.4 million, EUR 42.5 million) in 2014. Singapore, the established global destination for fine dining, which played host to the World Gourmet Summit in March this year where Scottish salmon was a key ingredient, grew by 200 MT. Hong Kong also saw significant growth, tripling consumption.
Exports to the European Union grew by 50 percent (5,000 MT). Key market France grew by GBP 20 million (USD 33 million, EUR 25 million) and Germany doubled consumption.
“The success of Scottish salmon is a testament to the dedication of our farmers who farm with care, passion and pride. Producers are committed to raising salmon of the highest quality and employ the latest innovations and technologies to refine their production methods. These results are good news for the local communities in which our salmon grow, and a boost to the wider economy of Scotland,” Landsburgh said.
