• Home
  • News
  • Comment on first shipment of Scottish salmon to India
July 31st 2026

The first major shipment of Scottish salmon has arrived in India after a free trade deal was struck between the UK and Indian governments.

Scottish salmon previously faced a 33 per cent tariff which severely limited trade, but this was removed on July 15 when the deal took effect.
It paves the way for exports worth tens of millions of pounds every year, creating investment and well-paid jobs in Scotland.
India is the world’s third-largest fish market, with domestic consumption reaching nearly 12 million tonnes in 2021.
Scottish salmon is the UK’s biggest food export with international sales of more than £828 million in 2025.
Salmon is also the UK’s favourite fish, with sales soaring to £1.6 billion in the 12 months to April amid rising demand.

Tavish Scott, chief executive of Salmon Scotland, said:

“India has phenomenal potential as a growing market for premium and sustainable Scottish salmon.
“We have been working hard with the UK Government and business partners in India to make the most of this opportunity for all our farming companies and the wider economy.
“With the first shipment having arrived in India, this is the start of a close relationship that could unlock tens of millions of pounds in exports each year, supporting well-paid jobs, investment, and growth here at home.
“This week’s India-Scottish Government meeting to coincide with the Glasgow Commonwealth Games provided a timely opportunity to put salmon