October 17, 2007

Scotland's salmon production reverses decline of previous years
 

Salmon production in Scotland is rising and looks set to increase this year, reversing the decline in recent years, according to a report from the region's Fisheries Research Services.

The expected growth is due to growing demand in the high value, premier end of the market, according to the agency's Scottish Fish Farms Annual Production Survey, 2006.

This increase comes after a period of consolidation in Scotland's salmon industry and is attributed to increased productivity and a continued rise in smolt yields.

Production is expected to increase 8.1 percent from 131,847 tonnes in 2006 to 142,550 tonnes in 2007, the report said.

Trout and cod production is seen to increase this year while a drop is expected in halibut production.

The survey indicated that rainbow trout production increased by 7.2 per cent in 2006 to reach 7,492 tonnes.

Close to 90 percent were for consumption while 10 percent went into restocking.

The industry continues to diversify as it seeks out global opportunities, the report said.