Scottish Salmon Exports Soar Despite Tariff Challenges

Exports of Scottish salmon to the United States have surged in the first half of 2025, more than doubling to £190 million, in spite of ongoing tariff barriers. According to data from HMRC, global exports of Scottish salmon are on track to approach £1 billion for the year, buoyed by a 23 per cent year-on-year increase to £528 million for the first six months of 2025.

Strong demand from North America, China, and Taiwan has offset a decline in the French market, positioning the industry to exceed the record £844 million in annual sales achieved last year. Tavish Scott, chief executive of Salmon Scotland, highlighted that the US market saw an impressive 110 per cent rise in value during this period, confirming the resilience and growth potential of Scottish salmon exports.

Despite these gains, tariffs still present a significant obstacle, with an estimated annual cost to the sector of £30 million. Scott emphasised that removing these tariffs could unlock further opportunities for Scottish exporters, benefiting both the industry and the coastal communities that rely on salmon farming. The industry directly employs around 2,500 people in Scotland and supports an additional 10,000 jobs through the wider supply chain.

France remains the leading export destination for Scottish salmon, although shipments there declined by 23 per cent year-on-year to £200 million in the first half of 2025. Nevertheless, the domestic market retains its importance, with an estimated value of £1.5 billion annually.

Kirsty McNeill, minister for the Scotland Office, underscored the global reputation of Scottish salmon for quality, noting its vital role as a premium export for the country. While the industry faces criticisms from environmental and animal welfare groups, recent data from Salmon Scotland reports monthly salmon survival rates exceeding 99 per cent, the highest since records began in 2018.

The sustainable growth of Scottish salmon exports, supported by effective policy and ongoing demand from key international markets, continues to underpin thousands of jobs and bolsters Scotland’s position as a leader in the global seafood sector.