Scotland’s fish farmers have delivered a 7% increase in salmon volumes to the highest level ever recorded. Farmers grew 205,393 tonnes of nutritious fish in 2021 to meet worldwide demand, a new Scottish Government report reveals.

The total number of smolts – young salmon – increased from 0.7million to 51.2million. There was a small decrease in farming staff numbers, reflecting Covid and post-Brexit labor market challenges. However, Salmon Scotland said the total number of workers in the sector remains consistent at around 2,500. Also, an additional 10,000 indirect jobs through the supply chain.

Separate figures show that the sector delivers £760 million for the Scottish economy. Supporting fragile coastal communities, while HMRC data confirm that Scottish salmon is the UK’s largest food export.

Tavish Scott, chief executive of Salmon Scotland, said: “2021 was a record year for Scottish salmon and that is credit to the hard-working farmers and everyone in our sector who rose to the challenge of meeting demand for our world-renowned fish.”

In addition, he recalled: “Our sector supports more than 2,500 direct and 10,000 indirect jobs, most of which are in some of the country’s most fragile coastal communities, generating hundreds of millions of pounds for our economy.”

“All this has been achieved despite the challenges of Covid and Brexit. With the right government support – streamlined regulation, a more business-friendly approach to immigration, and action to tackle rural housing shortages – we can deliver further sustainable growth,” he concluded.

About Salmon Scotland Ltd

Salmon Scotland Ltd represents every company farming salmon in Scotland. Along with companies from across the Scottish salmon supply chain, championing the sector’s interests.

It also works with its members, the UK, and Scottish governments, and regulators to help shape the regulatory environment so both Scotland and its members can thrive.

Salmon Scotland Ltd is governed by a board drawn from leaders in its membership with an independent chair.