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June 14th 2023

Scottish salmon's contribution to the UK's economy has been celebrated at the heart of the government with a reception in London.

The chief executive of the trade body Salmon Scotland, Tavish Scott, joined Scotland Office Minister John Lamont and Fisheries Minister Mark Spencer at Dover House on Whitehall for a cross-party event with MPs and officials.

Guests on Tuesday evening included Conservative, Labour, Liberal Democrat, and SNP parliamentarians and farm-raised salmon sector representatives.

Scottish salmon is the UK's biggest food export, followed by bread and pastries, chocolate, cereals, and cheese.

Recent HMRC figures show that exports to Asia have more than doubled to £24 million in the first three months of this year, driven by strong demand from China, Taiwan, Singapore, and South Korea.

Salmon Scotland believes that there are further opportunities for growth in North America and Asia due to rising consumer demand and ongoing efforts to reduce trade barriers.

The trade body also recently unveiled an ambitious growth plan for Scotland's premium 'Label Rouge' salmon to target European markets, aiming to increase its share to 15 percent by 2026.

Scotland's farm-raised salmon sector directly employs more than 2,500 people in Scotland and supports over 3,600 suppliers and an additional 10,000 indirect jobs.

John Lamont, UK Government Minister for Scotland, said:

"I was delighted to welcome Salmon Scotland, other sector representatives and parliamentarians to the Scotland Office for an event to celebrate this esteemed product.

"Scottish salmon is a great British export success story, rightly renowned around the globe. "It's also of huge importance for many of our coastal communities and supports thousands of jobs all over Scotland.

"The UK Government is determined to ensure it continues to enjoy a sustainable and profitable future.

"As we strike new international trade deals this will create more worldwide opportunities for Scottish salmon."

Mark Spencer, UK Government Fisheries Minister, said:

"As our biggest food export, we recognise the great opportunities that Scottish salmon brings to the Scottish and UK economy, which is why the UK Government is committed to supporting the sector and growth of our coastal communities.

"Nearly £20 million from our UK Seafood Fund has been invested already to support infrastructure projects in the sector, including the expansion of processing facilities for Scottish salmon, and ensure the UK fishing and seafood industry remains sustainable in the long run."

Tavish Scott, chief executive of Salmon Scotland, said:

"We are grateful to the Minister for welcoming us to Dover House and recognising the importance of our farm-raised salmon to the entire UK economy.

"We have an excellent relationship with the Scotland Office, the wider UK Government, and MPs who acknowledge the vital importance of international trade for Scottish salmon.

"Our world-renowned product is exported to 52 countries and is increasingly popular throughout the Asia-Pacific region, which is a source of immense pride for all of us.

"I am confident that, by working together, Scottish salmon will successfully navigate the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead."