There has been a positive and significant announcement about Scottish salmon and other fish products as they are allowed to export to Asia for the very first time.

Richard Lochhead has welcomed an agreement with China to allow exports of Scottish salmon.

Scotland's Rural Affairs Minister hailed itt as "hugely welcome news" as it will provide new impetus to Scotland's largest food export in one of the world's biggest seafood markets.  

A range of fisheries products are to be granted the certificate by AQSIQ, the Chinese ministerial administrative department in charge of import-export food safety, certification and accreditation and standardisation.

Fisheries Secretary Mr Lochhead said: "It provides a major boost for a crucial Scottish industry, strengthening efforts both to increase exports in a key market and to secure jobs across Scotland."

The development aims to further strengthen an already successful business sector which has positively weathered the economic downturn.

Last year alone, 234 new jobs were created in the salmon industry and nearly £30 million of capital was invested in 2009. The Scottish salmon industry is committed to nurturing a responsible, sustainable and environmentally aware future based on strong fishing heritage and traditions.

Mr Lochhead said: "Scotland is the world's third largest producer of Atlantic salmon and enjoys a reputation for quality fresh and added-value products such as smoked salmon. The Scottish salmon farming industry benefits from fish being farmed in clear, unpolluted waters and is fully regulated by Government agencies and partners.

"Salmon is of such importance to the Scottish economy, with a global retail sales value of over £1 billion per annum, that it has a specific priority within the wider seafood sector."

The news has also been met with a positive response from those in the industry. Jim Gallagher, Managing Director of Scottish Sea Farms Ltd said: "China is a major potential market with a significant number of discerning customers who I believe will appreciate the premium quality of our Scottish salmon.

"This new export opportunity is a welcome addition to the global markets in which we operate and I am confident it will contribute to the continued, sustainable growth of our business."