Scottish salmon exports reach record levels in 2024, report shows

SCOTLAND – Exports of Scottish salmon hit an all-time high in 2024, with trade data from HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) showing a 45% increase in value, reaching US$1.05 billion.

The rise in exports makes salmon the UK’s leading food export, ahead of cheddar cheese, lamb, and beef.

A major factor driving this growth is the increased demand in Asia, particularly from China and Taiwan, where sales have surged by more than 60%.

Scottish salmon, which is farmed in coastal regions such as the northwest Highlands, Argyll and Bute, the Western Isles, Orkney, and Shetland, was sold to 48 different countries over the past year.

This year’s export value surpasses the previous high of US$771 million recorded in 2019, according to the trade body Scottish Salmon.

France and the US Are the Leading Markets

France remains the primary destination for Scottish salmon, accounting for 55% of total export sales.

Shipments to the French market generated US$576 million, reflecting a 70% increase from the previous year.

The United States is the second-largest market, with exports growing by 61% to reach US$281 million.

Industry Growth Tied to Improved Fish Survival Rates

The report also highlights an increase in fish survival rates, with 82.3% of farmed salmon in Scotland surviving in 2024.

This marks the highest survival rate recorded in the last four years, according to the industry.

Scottish Salmon’s chief executive, Tavish Scott, said that producers have invested significant resources in improving fish welfare and maintaining high industry standards.

He added that while Scotland’s salmon sector operates under strict government regulations, better policies could help create more jobs and drive economic expansion.

The Scottish salmon industry directly employs around 2,500 people in coastal communities.

An additional 10,000 jobs are supported through the supply chain, making the sector a key employer in rural and island regions.

Scotland’s Deputy First Minister, Kate Forbes, said that the figures reflect the growing global demand for Scottish salmon, which is widely regarded as a high-quality product.

She also emphasized the industry’s role in providing well-paid, skilled employment in some of Scotland’s most remote areas.

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