Producers are exploring new opportunities following agreement on a free trade deal that will slash tariffs on exports to the sub-continent.
Scottish salmon currently faces a 33 per cent tariff which severely limits trade, but this is set to be removed next year when the deal struck by the UK Government takes effect.
This paves the way for exports worth tens of millions of pounds every year, creating inward investment and well-paid jobs in Scotland.
As talks get underway, Indian High Commissioner Vikram K. Doraiswami this week travelled to Scotland to learn more about the scale and quality of Scottish farm-raised salmon during a visit to Rosyth, Fife, which is home to the UK’s largest processing plant.
Edinburgh-based Vice Consul Amit Chaudhary also joined the tour of Mowi’s plant on Thursday, discussing ways to strengthen trade ties as the sector prepares to expand in this fast-growing market.
His Excellency Vikram K. Doraiswami, High Commissioner of India to the UK, said: “Visiting Mowi Scotland’s modern salmon processing, in this spectacular land of water and hills, has been a delight, particularly as we celebrate the announcement of successful conclusion of the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) in 2025.
“This landmark agreement is set to boost bilateral trade, which has already crossed £40 billion, by reducing tariffs and streamlining market access. The Scottish salmon industry, a global leader exporting over £800 million in 2024, exemplifies the quality and innovation driving this partnership.
“And on a personal note, salmon is a versatile fish, which I have always found very compatible with a range of Indian cuisines, including India's celebrated tandoori grilling, or my wife's recipe for Bengali mustard-infused steamed fish!
“And so I am delighted that with the FTA reducing trade barriers, India’s restauranteurs and consumers will soon be able to affordably access premium Scottish salmon, enhancing consumer choice and fostering economic growth.
“This visit underscores the potential for deepened collaboration, as the FTA is expected to support creating jobs and opportunities in both nations. The synergy between Scotland’s sustainable aquaculture practices and India’s rising demand for high-quality produce promises mutual prosperity.
“Here’s to a vibrant future of shared success, where quality meets opportunity, uniting India and the UK in a thriving economic alliance.”
Ian Murray, Secretary of State for Scotland, added: “The UK Government’s Brand Scotland initiative is laser focussed on selling the very best of Scotland to the world.
“Iconic and globally-renowned Scottish products like salmon — and our support for the sector — is an important part of that.
“The trade deal with India is central to our Plan for Change and great news for Scotland's food and drink sector: Slashing tariffs, increasing exports, growing our economy, securing jobs and putting more money in the pockets of hard working Scots.
“I look forward to continuing to work with Scottish businesses and other key partners as we give our country the global platform it deserves.”
India is the world’s third-largest fish market, with domestic use reaching nearly 12 million tonnes in 2021 — up 120 per cent since 2005.
Although most fish eaten is currently locally sourced, imports focus on premium seafood in major cities such as Delhi and Mumbai, where demand for healthy, high-quality produce is rising. Scottish salmon fits well into this high-end market.
At present, India does not register on the list of nearly 50 countries where Scottish salmon is exported in significant quantity, but there has been a recent boom in the Asian market.
Exports to China were up 60 per cent last year and volumes to Taiwan more than doubled – contributing to record international sales of more than £840 million and confirming Scottish salmon’s place as the UK’s biggest food export.
