Scottish salmon exports rose by 41% year-on-year in the first half of 2024 thanks to robust demand in Asia and the US, according to data released by Salmon Scotland, a UK trade body. 

New data shows that Scotland's largest food export generated £431 million ($555.4m) in revenue between January and June. 

"These figures are hugely encouraging and show strong demand for our high-quality salmon in Asia and America -- some of the most exciting markets in the world. It's a credit to those in the salmon industry across Scotland who work so hard to create such a revered product," said the UK government's trade policy minister, Douglas Alexander. 

Scottish salmon's export value increased impressively across various key markets, with the US, China, Taiwan, and Singapore leading the way.

Sales to the US increased by 18% y-o-y to £91m, while exports to China surged by 26% to £42m. Taiwan and Singapore witnessed even more dramatic growth, with sales climbing 41% to £12m and 57% to £4m, respectively.

Meanwhile, France continues to be the largest international market for Scottish salmon, with exports growing by 91% to £261m, driven by a sustained post-pandemic recovery in demand and constrained supplies during the same period last year.

According to Salmon Scotland, the industry is on track to set a new record for international sales if the current growth trajectory continues. The first half of 2024 saw EU export sales rise by 57% to £272m, while non-EU sales increased by 21% to £159m.

Overall, in the 12 months leading up to June, fresh, whole Scottish salmon export sales reached £706m, up 17% year-over-year. This growth suggests that sales could surpass the record of £617m set in 2019.

"These latest export figures show another period of remarkable success for Scottish salmon, reflecting the hard work and dedication of our farmers and the growing global demand for our nutritious fish. Sustainably farmed in the waters off the Highlands and islands, with a top priority given to animal welfare, Scottish salmon's exceptional quality is recognized worldwide, making it the UK's top food export," said Tavish Scott, CEO of Salmon Scotland. 

Data also shows the potential growth of premium 'Label Rouge' salmon exports, which currently account for around 12% of total exports. Salmon Scotland has a vision to increase this share to 15% by 2026, particularly by tapping into markets in Germany, Spain, and Italy, where the quality mark is increasingly recognized.

The Scottish salmon industry is a significant contributor to the UK economy, with the domestic market valued at approximately £1.2 billion annually. The sector's gross value added is worth £766m to the Scottish and UK economies, providing direct employment to 2,500 people in Scotland and supporting an additional 10,000 jobs.

"Beyond generating hundreds of millions of pounds for the UK economy and creating thousands of jobs, Scottish salmon supports thriving remote coastal communities. Both the UK and Scottish governments acknowledge the potential for continued sustainable growth, positioning Scotland to lead the world in the blue economy and expand the availability of one of the most nutritious foods we have," Scott concluded.