February 22, 2012

Scotland's premium salmon brand is set to experience export growth in the Middle East markets.

In the first half of 2011, the value of salmon exports to the Middle East was up 46% year-on-year, rising from GBP3.45 million (US$5.4 million) to GBP5.05 million (US$8 million). Exports of all salmon products to the Middle East have increased year-on-year since 2008, increasing from 974 tonnes in 2008 to 1,927 tonnes in 2010. 2011 is forecast to have seen another rise as higher value, premium salmon has become increasingly popular in the UAE, Kuwait, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman and Jordan.

Scott Landsburgh, Chief Executive of promotional body Scottish Quality Salmon, said: "We are delighted to be returning to one of the world's most exciting cities. Dubai is internationally recognised as a five-star destination that understands the value and importance of a quality experience. Food is an important part of this equation and Scottish salmon is increasingly attracting levels of interest and take up from the extensive array of top quality hotels in the United Arab Emirates and around the region.

"Chefs are our strongest supporters and their understanding of the quality of our salmon is driving its success with diners in the Middle East," he added.

Richard Lochhead, the Scottish Government's Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and Environment, will be in the UAE to attend Gulfood. He said: "Scotland is a natural larder and we provide some of the world's freshest and healthiest foods – combined with a quality, authenticity and trustworthiness that few can match.

Therefore I am delighted that Label Rouge Scottish Salmon will be the showpiece seafood product at Emirates Salon Culinaire, further underlining that top chefs and professionals view Scottish food and drink as some of the most delicious and premium produce in the world.

"The Middle East is a key target market for the Scottish food and drink industry, with demand increasing significantly from this region. We look forward to the many opportunities that Gulfood will bring and wish all those involved with Emirates Salon Culinaire every success in the competition."

Although originally dedicated to the French market, Label Rouge Scottish Salmon has acquired international recognition for its superior quality and taste. Exports of the premium salmon have increased year-on-year since 2008, reaching a record 7,743 tonnes in 2010. The Middle East is a new emerging market for Label Rouge Scottish Salmon, with producers attending Gulfood for the first time last year.

Recognition by one of the world's most highly-starred groups of culinary experts, the Master Chefs of France, has helped the popularity of Label Rouge Scottish Salmon. The superior fish was served to some 2,000 guests at a five-star event in Dubai in July 2011, organised by Christophe Prud'homme, Caterer Middle East Chef of the Year 2010 and a Master Chef of France.