Scottish government: Salmon exports total £2.3bn over decade

Scottish salmon was granted protected status in 2004

Scottish farmed salmon exports have totalled more than £2.3bn since the premium product won protected status 10 years ago, according to the Scottish government.

Overseas sales have soared from £140m in 2004 to an estimated £454m in 2013.

Scottish salmon was granted Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) in 2004, putting it in the same class as Scotch whisky and Scotch beef.

The figures were revealed during the Seafood Global Expo in Brussels.

The event is being attended this week by Scottish Fisheries Secretary Richard Lochhead.

Nineteen companies are exhibiting at the the expo's Scottish Pavilion.

'Fantastic event'

Mr Lochhead said: "This week's Seafood Global Expo is the world's largest seafood show with buyers from across the globe, including key markets for Scotland such as the US and France and the emerging markets in Asia.

"This is a fantastic event where Scottish seafood sector can showcase its wonderful range of seafood products and celebrate its position as a global player."

He added: "Scotland is rightly hailed as a land of food and drink across the world and this year Scottish farmed salmon is celebrating 10 years as a PGI.

"During this time it has been named as the best farmed salmon in the world by international seafood buyers and continues to be in huge demand worldwide."

Scott Lansburgh, chief executive of the Scottish Salmon Producers' Organisation, said: "To be able to enjoy the same status as Scotch beef and other notable European foods has helped us develop our reputation in over 60 countries worldwide." ‪