SCOTTISH salmon exports are on course to hit £1 billion for the first time, fuelled by rising international demand.
New figures show export sales jumped 33% to £941 million in the year to the end of June 2025.
The industry’s prospects have been further boosted by a new UK-India trade deal, expected to open up access to the world’s third-largest fish market.
Export growth was particularly strong in non-EU markets such as the US, China, Taiwan and Canada.
Tavish Scott, chief executive of Salmon Scotland, said: “These latest export figures show another period of remarkable success for Scottish salmon. They reflect the hard work of our farmers and the growing global demand for our nutritious fish.
“With international sales approaching £1bn, Scottish salmon continues to perform strongly on the world stage, especially in the US where demand remains robust.”
Sales to the US soared by 110% to £190m compared with the same period in 2024, though uncertainty remains over the global impact of tariffs, with First Minister John Swinney raising the issue with US president Donald Trump during his widely criticised visit to Scotland.
“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 and help secure long-term growth for Scottish salmon," Scott added.
“Both the UK and Scottish governments acknowledge the potential for continued sustainable growth, and with the right support, we can sustain thousands of jobs and thriving coastal communities.”
Analysis by Salmon Scotland of HMRC figures showed that China recorded a 75% rise to £74m, while exports to Canada surged by 1300% to £21m and Taiwan sales increased to £17m.
Despite growing international sales, the EU market remains key to Scottish salmon, with France still the largest importer, accounting for 45% of all exports.
However, total EU sales dipped by 7% to £423m, while non-EU exports surged 106% to £518m.
To counter the EU slowdown, the Scottish Government has launched a new campaign to promote “Label Rouge” salmon in Europe.
Mairi Gougeon, Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, said: “This year’s exceptional performance to date reflects the unwavering international demand for Scottish salmon, which continues to set the benchmark for quality and sustainability in global seafood markets.
“We continue to work alongside the salmon sector to help maintain and expand export opportunities abroad while also strengthening its reputation at home.
“This includes contributing £50,000 towards a £100,000 marketing campaign to boost sales of Label Rouge Scottish salmon in France and other key European markets.
“Reducing US tariffs on Scottish produce goods, including Scottish salmon, is also a priority for the Scottish Government.
“We will continue to press the UK Government on the importance of this matter during its negotiations with the US government.”
Meanwhile, industry leaders are optimistic that current momentum could break the previous export record of £844m set in 2024.
Production is also on the rise, with a 26% increase in fish volume and a record-high survival rate of 99.12%.
The sector employs around 2500 people directly in Scotland, supporting another 10,000 jobs in the wider supply chain.
“Salmon farming is vital to our rural economy, supporting thousands of skilled jobs across coastal and island communities", Gougeon continued.
"The sector’s success is a testament to the hard work and innovation of producers who are committed to growth."
