Fresh Scottish salmon exports reached record levels in 2010, according to new figures published by Scottish Salmon Producers'' Organisation (SSPO).
This confirms salmon as Scotland’s largest food export.
Exports increased by 20%, rising to 78,611t from 65,480t the previous year. This is the second consecutive year that exports have risen as global demand for the healthy and sustainable protein continues to grow.
The UK continues to be the most important market by some distance. Seven of the top 10 export markets grew in volume in 2010. Scottish salmon now reaches 54 countries worldwide. Europe remains the main export market, with France its top importer (26,475t). The USA is the biggest destination in the rest of the world (31,924t). Growing and emerging markets include Belgium, Switzerland, the Netherlands, eastern Europe and the Middle East.
Scott Landsburgh, Chief Executive of the SSPO, said: “Scottish farmed salmon is a top quality, healthy and sustainable protein in high demand at home and overseas. Exports have increased over 650% during the last 20 years. The strong performance demonstrates that the salmon farming sector is playing a key role in the export-led economic recovery.”
