Farmed salmon survival rates have reached a record high, according to Salmon Scotland.
The industry body said the survival rate for farm-raised salmon reached 99.1% in March, the best performance since reporting began in 2018.
Salmon Scotland said it reflected sustained improvements in fish health and farm management, with salmon farmers investing more than £1bn in veterinary care, technology and stock management since 2018.
“This progress helps ensure Scottish salmon remains one of the country’s great food success stories,” said Salmon Scotland chief executive Tavish Scott. “Higher survival means more nutritious, low-carbon food reaching consumers at home and overseas, supporting jobs, communities and economic growth.”
Scottish salmon is the UK’s top food export, with international sales reaching £828m in 2025 and domestic sales £1.5bn. However, the sector has received a steady wave of criticism over animal welfare and sustainability in recent years including in March, the Scottish Parliament’s Rural Affairs Committee warning the sector’s future was at risk without action on welfare and sustainability.
It comes as Salmon Scotland and 60 businesses wrote to all candidates in April, urging the next Scottish government to cut red tape, support jobs, investment and export growth.
“This election is a moment for candidates to show they understand the value of the sector and the role it plays in supporting communities across the country,” Scott said.
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