Scottish Salmon Exports on Track to Exceed £1 Billion Amid Growing Global Demand

Scottish salmon exports are set to break through the £1 billion barrier for the first time, driven by robust international demand.

Recent data indicates that exports of salmon from Scotland surged by 33% to £941 million over the rolling 12 months ending in June. This growth comes as Scottish salmon farmers aim to enter the lucrative Indian market, enabled by a free trade agreement brokered by the UK Government.

The economic implications of these figures have been welcomed by both UK and Scottish governments, with ministers emphasizing the importance of the sector to the economy. In just the first half of 2025, exports reached £528 million, positioning Scottish salmon well for a record-setting year.

Market Dynamics and Opportunities

Significant increases in export value have been recorded in key markets such as the US, China, Taiwan, and Canada. While US demand for Scottish salmon continues to climb sharply, uncertainty looms around the global consequences of tariffs. First Minister John Swinney addressed these concerns in a recent meeting with President Donald Trump.

Salmon Scotland advocates for the removal of tariffs on Scottish salmon exports to the US, suggesting that 2025 could achieve historic international sales should the current growth trend persist.

Tavish Scott, CEO of Salmon Scotland, commented, “These latest export figures illustrate another remarkable success for Scottish salmon, highlighting the dedication of our farmers and rising global demand for our nutritious fish. With international sales nearing £1 billion, Scottish salmon continues to excel on the global stage, particularly in the US. However, tariffs present a substantial barrier, costing the sector an estimated £30 million annually. Eliminating these tariffs would unlock even greater opportunities for exporters and facilitate long-term growth for Scottish salmon.”

The EU and Beyond

France remains the leading international market for Scottish salmon, accounting for nearly half (45%) of exports in the year leading up to June. Despite a 7% dip in overall EU export sales to £423 million, non-EU sales skyrocketed by 106% to exceed £518 million annually.

A fresh marketing initiative backed by the Scottish Government aims to boost sales of ‘Label Rouge’ Scottish salmon in France and other key European markets. The recent UK-EU trade deal also opens avenues for increased salmon exports to Europe, although US tariffs are pushing competitors to concentrate more on European markets. Simultaneously, producers are exploring new opportunities in India, the world’s third-largest fish market, thanks to a new free trade deal that will significantly lower export tariffs.

Export Highlights

Analysis of HMRC figures by Salmon Scotland shows significant growth in the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024:

• US exports rose by 110% to £190 million
• Exports to China grew by 75% to £74 million
• Canadian exports soared by 1,300% to £21 million
• Exports to Taiwan increased by 45% to £17 million
• These trends suggest that fresh, whole Scottish salmon exports could surpass the record of £844 million set in 2024.

The volume of fish transported also rose by 26% in the first half of 2025, pointing to higher harvest volumes and improved survival rates compared to last year. The latest data indicates that monthly survival rates averaged 99.12% between January and June — the best start to a year since such information began being voluntarily published in 2018, following over £1 billion in investments in veterinary care, technology, and stock management.

Domestic Valuation and Employment Impact

On the home front, the UK domestic market for salmon is valued at around £1.5 billion per year, with the sector contributing a Gross Value Added (GVA) of £766 million to both the Scottish and UK economies. Farm-raised salmon directly employs 2,500 people in Scotland, with the number of jobs dependent on the sector totaling around 10,000.

Government Support

Kirsty McNeill, Minister for the Scotland Office, remarked, “Salmon is one of the jewels in the crown of Scotland’s world-class produce, and these figures emphasize its global reputation for unmatched quality. The UK Government’s Brand Scotland initiative focuses heavily on marketing the best of Scotland internationally. Supporting Scottish salmon, along with the trade agreements we are negotiating, is a key part of our strategy for economic growth.”

Mairi Gougeon, Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, added, “This year’s outstanding performance thus far underscores the constant international demand for Scottish salmon, which continues to set benchmarks for quality and sustainability. Salmon farming is essential to our rural economy, providing thousands of skilled jobs in coastal and island communities. The sector’s success reflects the dedication and innovation of our producers.”

“We remain committed to working with the salmon industry to enhance export opportunities while fortifying its reputation domestically. We have allocated £50,000 towards a £100,000 marketing campaign to bolster sales of Label Rouge Scottish salmon in France and other significant European markets.”

“It is crucial for the Scottish Government to advocate for the reduction of US tariffs on Scottish goods, including salmon. This priority was addressed by the First Minister in his recent discussions with the President of the United States, and we will persist in urging the UK Government to emphasize this issue during negotiations.”