Growth for farmed salmon 20/11/11
Production of farmed salmon in Scotland
increased by nearly 7% in 2010 -
At 154,164 tonnes, last year’s harvest was worth about £540 million – more than 30% up on value of salmon produced the previous year, reflecting increases in both prices and production.
Environment Minister Stewart Stevenson said: "Scotland is a global player in farmed salmon – the largest in the EU and third in the world alongside Norway and Chile.
“I'm pleased that the industry has been able to achieve steady growth in farmed salmon production once again this year, demonstrating that demand for quality Scottish Farmed Salmon remains very high.
“The survey shows direct employment in the fish farming industry has increased by
over 100 to some 1,500 people. With many more indirect jobs supported, this provides
an importance contribution to the Scottish economy, particularly in rural communities
in the West Highlands, Western and Northern Isles.
"The Scottish Government is confident
that in the coming years we can continue to see managed and sustainable growth in
the sector, while ensuring high environmental and fish health standards."