The value of Scottish farmed salmon rose by £100million last year as exports remain strong, new figures show.
Farm gate sales of salmon hit £633million in 2013, a figure that has quadrupled in 20 years, according to the Scottish Salmon Producers’ Organisation (SSPO).
The fish farmers’ trade body said salmon is now Scotland’s largest food export, as sales have expanded to over 60 countries.
Production tonnage has also more than quadrupled, from 36,000 tonnes in 1992 to 152,000 in 2013.
The new figures were launched as salmon producers headed to a key annual industry event in Brussels tomorrow.
Scott Landsburgh, chief executive of the SSPO said: “We have seen fantastic growth in the value of the farmed salmon over the years.
“Export values are now around £450million and sales of the prestigious Label Rouge salmon have quadrupled in the past 18 years.
“This is undoubtedly a success story, which is a result of the industry’s innovation, high standards and dedicated workforce.
“We are optimistic that the Brussels exhibition will bring back further business which in turn will be good news for jobs, local economies and continued investment in sustainable salmon farming.”
Scottish Fisheries Secretary Richard Lochhead said: “Scotland is world renowned for delicious, high-quality and healthy farmed salmon. We are recognised around the world for best practice in aquaculture.”
Chief executive of Scotland Food and Drink, James Withers said: “This is always a big week for Scotland’s salmon sector as it showcases its quality to the world’s seafood buyers.
“The sector is providing a real model to follow for the rest of our food and drink industry and it has cemented its place as Scotland’s top food export. Our international ambitions are huge and salmon continues to demonstrate that world-class production standards and unrivalled eating quality is a powerful combination in building Scotland’s reputation as a Land of Food and Drink.”
Six companies – Scottish Sea Farms, The Scottish Salmon Company, Marine Harvest Scotland, Meridian Salmon Farms, Loch Duart and Scottish Quality Salmon will be at the seafood show which runs from tomorrow to Thursday.
Aquaculture UK, Page 29