Date Created: 23 April 2012
Fresh Scottish salmon exports have reached record levels for the second year in a row.
Official figures show that emerging and established markets both enjoyed growth with 95,638 tonnes, growth of 22 percent, exported to 64 countries.
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Seven of the top ten markets have grown in volume with North America taking over as the main export market for the first time following a rise of 35 percent.
Exports to the Far East rose almost 900 percent to 6,779 tonnes.
The news is a welcome boost to the industry as 17 Scottish companies prepare to exhibit in Scottish Development International's (SDI) Scottish Pavilion at the European Seafood Exposition in Brussels.
Scott Landsburgh, Chief Executive, Scottish Salmon Producers' Organisation (SSPO), said:
"Exports of fresh Scottish salmon have increased five out of the last six years and have almost doubled over the last decade. With both Scottish salmon exports and global demand for Atlantic salmon at an all-time high, the sector is a major player in the export-led recovery.
"We must continue to work collaboratively to ensure continued confidence and avoid any unintended consequences in the proposed Aquaculture and Fisheries Bill as this would jeopardise further investment and job creation."
Anne MacColl, SDI's chief executive, added:
"Scotland's food and drink exports are at an all-time high right now and these salmon figures are further testament to Scotland's growing international reputation as a world-leader in the manufacture of premium quality food and drink products.
"These results also highlight some important changes in the patterns of international trade in terms of which markets offer the most opportunities for Scottish companies. It's vital that home-grown food and drink companies broaden their horizons and take advantage of these new market developments to help realise their own growth potential.
"And that's where SDI comes in - by working collaboratively with Scotland Food and Drink and industry, we believe we can further boost international salmon exports and in doing so, deliver long-term sustainable growth for Scotland’s economy."
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