A SCOTTISH airport has launched a new "game-changing" route to export seafood to China.
Glasgow Prestwick Airport announced the new Scotland to China route on Monday, following £1 million investment in new equipment and facilities.
These include new metal detectors, temperature exposure and tracking systems, as well as four chillers.
The new facilities are expected to handle seafood exports to both China and mainland Europe.
In 2024, salmon exports from Scotland to China reached £76m, marking a 60% increase from the previous year, the airport said.
More than 8175 tonnes of salmon were exported to China last year, making it the third-largest market for Scottish salmon.
Ian Forgie, CEO of Glasgow Prestwick Airport, said: “The value of Scottish salmon exports reached a record £844 million in 2024, with the Chinese market growing by 60% in value and 107% in volume.
“Our in-house expertise coupled with our significant investment makes PIK [Glasgow Prestwick Airport] a standout hub for the Scottish seafood industry and we are prepared to meet growing demand.”
He added that the new facilities are a "game-changer for Scottish seafood producers", due to the airport's close proximity to many fish farms, many of which are situated along the west coast.
The airport said that the new service will mean products will have their shelf life extended by up to 18 hours by reducing the time it takes to transport them from the farms to the airport, resulting in lower transport costs as well as a reduction in CO2 emissions.
Tavish Scott, chief executive of Salmon Scotland, commented: “The new dedicated service from Glasgow Prestwick Airport strengthens our ability to meet growing demand in China and across Asia, while supporting jobs and communities in Scotland’s coastal and rural areas.
“This investment is a welcome boost to our sector and will support Scotland’s already exemplary export performance.”
It is understood that the new export route will see eight flights depart every week from Glasgow Prestwick Airport to Asia.
