Huge leap in salmon exports

Fish dish: Scottish salmon exports to the Far East reached £16m.© STV

Salmon exports to the Far East have leaped to almost seven times previous levels after a deal was struck with China.

In the first half of this year, 3,036 tonnes of salmon was exported to countries in the Far East - with a value of around £16million.

That compares with £2.1m of exports in the same period last year.

It is understood that 2,347 tonnes of this year's exports were sent to China, making it the top export destination for Scottish salmon in the Far East.

The Scottish Government said Scottish producers made up almost one-quarter of the Atlantic salmon market after six months of trading in China.

Rural Affairs and Environment Secretary Richard Lochhead said: "This is a huge vote of confidence in Scottish salmon and yet another boost for Scottish food exports. If this is what can be achieved in the first six months, then the sky could be the limit for exports to China.

"The high quality of Scottish salmon is perfect for the increasing popularity of sashimi and sushi and the vast majority of our salmon is exported fresh to meet the growing appetite for Japanese-style premium raw fish in China."

Scott Landsburgh, chief executive of the Scottish Salmon Producers' Organisation, said: "From a standing start earlier this year China has become the fifth largest export destination for Scottish salmon.

"With a significant number of discerning customers who appreciate premium quality salmon, China is a welcome addition to the other 70 global markets in which our sector operates. The value of exports to the whole of the Far East region has increased eightfold in 12 months."

Anne MacColl, chief executive of Scottish Development International, said: "Today's announcement is a true reflection of Scotland's reputation as a world-leading producer of high quality seafood produce.

"Our strategy focuses on maximising Scotland's international trade opportunities and we will continue to work alongside industry partners, like Scottish Salmon Producers' Organisation, to support ambitious Scottish companies as they access new markets."