Salmon Scotland said Scottish salmon exports totalled more than £6 billion over the past decade, with overseas sales rising from £445 million in 2016 to £828 million in 2025.
Analysis of HMRC trade data by the industry body showed export volumes increased from 73,527 tonnes in 2016 to 110,942 tonnes in 2025, a rise of 51%, while export value increased by 86% over the same period.
Scottish salmon was exported to 94 markets between 2016 and 2025. Around 110,000 tonnes were shipped to 45 direct export markets last year.
France and US remain dominant markets
France remained the largest market in 2025 with imports worth £337 million, followed by the United States at £301 million and China at £97 million. Together, the three markets accounted for almost 89% of total export value.
Salmon Scotland said exports over the decade equated to more than 6.4 billion meals globally.
The trade body said production growth has lagged export demand growth. Scottish salmon production increased from 162,817 tonnes in 2016 to 195,182 tonnes in 2025, representing average annual growth of 1.8%.
“This analysis shows the extraordinary success of Scottish salmon overseas, with more than £6 billion in export sales over the past decade and our fish reaching almost 100 markets around the world,” said Salmon Scotland chief executive Tavish Scott.
“But the figures also underline the challenge. Demand continues to grow, yet production has increased only modestly,” he added.
Industry highlights India and Gulf opportunities
Scott said the sector required “smarter, more effective regulation” to support sustainable production growth.
The trade body said Scottish salmon production supports around 2,500 direct jobs and a further 8,500 roles across feed, logistics, processing and equipment supply chains.
According to the analysis, exports from Scotland’s salmon farming regions over the decade totalled £1.7 billion from the north west Highlands, £1.3 billion from Shetland, £1.2 billion from Argyll and Bute, £1.1 billion from the Western Isles and £663 million from Orkney.
Salmon Scotland also highlighted potential export growth opportunities linked to the planned UK-India free trade agreement, which is expected to remove India’s current 33% tariff on Scottish salmon.
The UK is also pursuing trade agreements with Gulf states including the UAE and Saudi Arabia, while a new agreement with South Korea has secured permanent tariff-free access for UK goods.
