Scottish salmon exports to US rise sharply

Exports of Scottish salmon to the US leapt by nearly 40% last year to £215m, according to new industry figures.

The Scottish Salmon Producers' Organisation (SSPO) said the increase was the result of the product's "fantastic reputation".

The figures were released as Scottish firms prepared to attend North America's largest seafood trade event.

Seafood Expo North America in Boston will feature 1,000 exhibitors from more than 40 countries.

The US has been Scottish salmon's largest export market for the past five years.

SSPO chief executive Scott Landsburgh said: "These impressive figures are the result of the fantastic reputation our salmon enjoys in the USA.

"Quality and Scottish provenance are key to the American market.

"Major retail chains and high-end restaurants are delighted with the salmon we supply from Scotland."

Susan Beattie, head of food and drink at Scottish Development International, said: "It's great to hear that salmon has performed so well on exports in 2014 - this reflects the growing international demand for quality Scottish produce."