Statistics published in the Scottish Fish Farm Production Survey 2014 report have revealed that production of Scottish farmed salmon has leapt to its highest ever level.
According to the report, 179,022 tonnes of farmed Atlantic salmon were produced in 2014 - the highest level of production ever recorded in Scotland, and an increase of almost 10% on the previous year. Rainbow trout, halibut and brown/sea trout production also increased.
The survey also reveals an increase in the number of people working across all Scottish fin fish production - from 1,625 in 2013 to 1,796 in 2014, an increase of 10%. The estimated farmgate value of all fin fish was £733.4 million last year, an increase of 6.2% compared to the previous 12 months.
“This record year of 179,022 tonnes of Atlantic salmon production is great news for Scotland and reaffirms our global position amongst the leading producer nations,” said Environment Minister Aileen McLeod. “Salmon is a key part of our economy providing employment and investment, particularly in some of our most remote, coastal communities.
“Aquaculture revenue in Scotland is now estimated to be worth £1.86 billion annually to the economy, an increase of £110 million year-on-year, and supports over 8,300 jobs. If industry’s sustainable growth targets, supported by the Scottish Government, are met this value will rise to well over £2 billion a year and support 10,000 jobs across Scotland by 2020.”
