Scottish salmon exports record their highest level in five years

Scottish salmon exports have recorded £645 million, which means their highest level in five years, according to new HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) data analyzed by trade body Salmon Scotland.

This fee represent an 11% increase on last year's total of £581 million and marking the highest sales value since 2019.

In the first four months of 2024, the value of exports increased from £65 million to £250 million, a 36% increase on the same period last year. Additionally, the volume of fish transported registered a 35% increase.

Salmon Scotland hopes that 2024 could set a record for international sales, further confirming salmon's position as the UK's top food export.

Regarding these figures, Tavish Scott, chief executive of Salmon Scotland, said: "As exports continue to rise, enhanced legal protection under the UK Government's Protected Geographical Indication scheme will safeguard the Scottish salmon brand both domestically and internationally."

European exports after the Brexit

At the same time, Salmon Scotland is calling on the next UK Government to reduce the red tape introduced due to Brexit and urging whoever wins the general election on July 4 to improve relations with the European Union to boost exports.

Moreover, the sector is requesting the introduction of electronic export health certificates and the elimination of unnecessary paperwork, which costs salmon farmers approximately £3 million each year.

Of the more than 40 countries to which Scottish salmon is exported, the majority are still European countries, accounting for £153 million of the total between January and April. France remains the largest market with sales of £143 million.

"Given the critical importance of revenue generation by our farmers, particularly during the cost-of-living crisis, whoever is handed the keys to Number 10 must streamline the export process for fresh Scottish salmon, ensuring quicker delivery to our customers," Scott urged.