Scottish salmon exports on track to hit £1bn as global demand surges

Scottish salmon exports are on course to surpass £1 billion for the first time, fuelled by surging demand from international markets including the United States, China and Canada.

New figures show sales abroad rose by 33% to £941 million in the 12 months to June, according to Salmon Scotland. In the first half of 2025 alone, exports were worth £528 million, putting the UK’s biggest food export on track for a record-breaking year.

The growth comes as Scottish producers prepare to enter the lucrative Indian market following the UK’s free trade agreement with the country, which will cut tariffs on salmon exports.

Tavish Scott, chief executive of Salmon Scotland, said the latest numbers reflected “remarkable success” for the sector and the hard work of farmers meeting growing global demand.

“With international sales approaching £1 billion, Scottish salmon continues to perform strongly on the world stage, especially in the US where demand remains robust,” he said. “However, tariffs remain a significant barrier, costing the sector an estimated £30 million each year. Removing these tariffs would open up even greater opportunities for exporters.”

The US market grew by 110% in the first half of 2025 compared to the same period last year, reaching £190 million. China was up 75% to £74 million, Taiwan rose 45% to £17 million, and Canada posted a 1,300% jump to £21 million.

While France remains the top export market, taking 45% of Scottish salmon sales, EU exports overall dipped 7% to £423 million. By contrast, non-EU markets surged 106% to £518 million.

The sector has also benefitted from improved survival rates and higher harvest volumes, with monthly survival averaging 99.12% between January and June – the best start to a year since records began in 2018.

Mairi Gougeon, Scotland’s Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, hailed the “exceptional performance” and said the government was working with the industry to maintain growth. “Reducing US tariffs on Scottish produce, including salmon, is a priority,” she said.

Salmon farming contributes £766 million in Gross Value Added (GVA) to the UK economy, directly employing 2,500 people in Scotland and supporting a further 10,000 jobs in coastal and island communities.