Production of Scottish farmed salmon has leapt to its highest ever level, according to statistics published this week and is set to continue its upward climb.
According to the Scottish Fish Farm Production Survey 2014 report, 179,022 tonnes of farmed Atlantic salmon was produced in 2014. That is the highest level of production ever recorded in Scotland, and an increase of almost 10 per cent on the previous year. Rainbow trout, halibut and brown/sea trout production also increased.
The estimated farm gate value of all fin fish was GBP 733.4 million (USD 1,1 billion) last year, an increase of 6.2 per cent compared to the previous 12 months.
Environment Minister Aileen McLeod said:
“This record year of 179,022 tonnes of Atlantic salmon production is great news for Scotland and reaffirms our global position amongst the leading producer nations. Salmon is a key part of our economy providing employment and investment, particularly in some of our most remote, coastal communities.
“Aquaculture revenue in Scotland is now estimated to be worth GBP 1.86 billion (USD 2.86 billion) annually to the economy, an increase of GBP 110 million (USD 169 million) year-on-year, and supports over 8,300 jobs. If industry’s sustainable growth targets, supported by the Scottish Government, are met, this value will rise to well over GBP 2 billion (USD 3.1 billion) a year and support 10,000 jobs across Scotland by 2020.”
