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Just six months after the first direct exports were agreed, China has become the largest export destination for Scottish salmon in the Far East.
In January this year, the Scottish and Chinese governments reached an agreement to allow seafood exports directly from Scotland to the People's Republic of China.
New data from HM Revenue & Customs reveal between January and June this year 2,347 tonnes of Scottish salmon were exported to the most populous country in the world.
The value of all salmon exports to Far East markets, which include China, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam, Japan, Taiwan and Hong Kong, increased from 2.1 million pounds between January and June 2010 to more than 16 million pounds for the same period in 2011.
Opening up this new Far East market has boosted international exports by 12 million pounds, up 600 per cent, with Scottish producers making up almost a quarter of the Atlantic salmon market after just six months of trading in China.
Scott Landsburgh, chief executive, Scottish Salmon Producers' Organisation, said: "From a standing start earlier this year China has become the fifth largest export destination for Scottish salmon.
"With a significant number of discerning customers who appreciate premium quality salmon, China is a welcome addition to the other 70 global markets in which our sector operates. The value of exports to the whole of the Far East region has increased eightfold in 12 months."
Rural Affairs and Environment Secretary Richard Lochhead said: "This is huge vote of confidence in Scottish salmon and yet another boost for Scottish food exports. If this is what can be achieved in the first six months, then the sky could be the limit for exports to China.
"The high-quality of Scottish salmon is perfect for the increasing popularity of sashimi and sushi and the vast majority of our salmon is exported fresh to meet the growing appetite for Japanese-style premium raw fish in China."
Scottish Development International chief executive Anne MacColl said: "This announcement is a true reflection of Scotland's reputation as a world-leading producer of high quality seafood produce. Our strategy focuses on maximising Scotland's international trade opportunities and we will continue to work alongside industry partners, like Scottish Salmon Producers' Organisation, to support ambitious Scottish companies as they access new markets."
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