Scottish Salmon sales leap to second highest ever

SCOTTISH salmon farmers are celebrating another successful year of exports, particularly with sales to the Far East.

In 2012, exports of fresh salmon reached their second highest annual figure ever. Picture: Jane Barlow

In 2012, exports of fresh salmon reached their second highest annual figure ever, with a 16 per cent increase since 2010.

Although overall exports fell slightly from their peak in 2011, figures remain significantly up on two years ago and have increased year-on-year in the world’s expanding economies.

Exports to the Far East increased by 64 per cent from 5,952 tonnes in 2011 to 9,799 tonnes.

Scott Landsburgh, chief executive of the Scottish Salmon Producers’ Organisation, said: “Our members have done a fantastic job in difficult economic circumstances and by focusing on those markets with the highest growth potential, achieved the second highest year of exports on record and provided the perfect platform for future success.

“Like any farmed food, Scottish salmon is subject to price fluctuations and this has been a more difficult year in that regard, but what has to be remembered is that our members are not only selling food abroad, they are selling Scotland’s reputation for quality.”