The Scottish salmon industry
Salmon is of such importance to the Scottish economy that the industry deserves to be considered individually, and not as part of the wider seafood sector. Salmon farming is the most important economic development in the Highlands and Islands over the past 30 years, and the retail sales value of Scottish salmon is around £300 million per annum.
The Scottish salmon industry is committed to nurturing a responsible, sustainable and environmentally aware future based on strong fishing heritage and traditions.
The scale of the salmon industry in Scotland
Scotland is the world’s third largest producer of Atlantic salmon and enjoys a reputation for quality fresh and added-value products such as smoked salmon. The Scottish salmon industry benefits from fish being farmed in clear, unpolluted waters and is fully regulated by Government agencies and partners.
- The salmon industry in Scotland has invested heavily in research in areas such as fish and human health, and sustainability and diversification.
- Exports of salmon represent some 40 per cent of all Scottish food exports.
- Scotland produces around 75 per cent of EU salmon and large trout output per annum.
- Nearly half a billion meals featuring Scottish farmed salmon were enjoyed worldwide in 2006.
- More than 12 million fish are exported to over 60 countries annually.
- The salmon industry in Scotland supports 8500 jobs in total, of which 4500 are in remote rural communities.
Strengths of the Scottish salmon industry
The Scottish salmon industry benefits from proximity to developed markets, a full supply chain and infrastructure, and strong Government support. Other advantages include:
- The salmon industry in Scotland fully complying with all EU directives.
- Excellent dialogue with wild fisheries, and partnerships with Scottish smoked salmon producers.
- Welfare accreditation and EU PGI status.
- Stringent traceability, husbandry and quality assurance systems are in place, including excellent handling, processing and distribution methods.
Scottish salmon – further benefits and opportunities
Integrated haulage and shipping services and high standards of employee training/ qualifications bring further benefits to a well regulated, well managed and environmentally responsible industry.
Opportunities for the Scottish salmon industry include:
- Fish consumption being on the increase across the world, encouraged by an increasing awareness of health benefits.
- Increased added-value activity through new product development.
- Technological development such as improved farming techniques.
- Farmed fish species being used to reduce supply shortages.
- Collaborations in new technology, research, product development and processing.
Scottish food and drink are renowned for their quality across the world. Discover how the various Scottish food and drink sectors contribute to a thriving industry.