Scottish salmon has maintained its status as the UK’s leading food export, with a notable 9% increase in tonnage last year, reaching approximately 111,000 tonnes. In contrast, exports of Scotch whisky have experienced a slight decline, as highlighted by recent statistics from HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC). While the salmon sector continues to thrive, the whisky industry faces significant challenges, particularly due to the impact of tariffs in key markets.
Salmon Exports: A Continued Success Story
Despite a decrease in average prices, the total value of Scottish salmon exports remained robust at £828 million, albeit down by £16 million year-on-year. France continues to be the largest market for Scottish salmon, although the value of exports to this country saw a decline of over 25%. The Boulogne-sur-Mer wholesale market plays a critical role in meeting the seafood demands of the European Union.
Remarkably, the United States has emerged as an increasingly important market for Scottish salmon, with export values surpassing £300 million—a 34% increase. The volume of shipments to the US rose by 44%, reaching 35,000 tonnes. This growth can be attributed to a rise in direct freight flights from Prestwick to China, which also contributed to a significant increase in sales in the Asian market. In 2025, Scotland’s farmed fish exports to China rose by 55% in volume, driven by a growing demand for premium seafood among Chinese consumers.
Scotch Whisky: Facing Headwinds
In stark contrast, Scotch whisky exports recorded a slight decline of less than 1% last year, totalling £4.36 billion. The overall volume of whisky shipped abroad fell by 4.3%. The United States remains the leading market for Scotch, with £933 million in sales—down 4% from previous highs. Notably, a stockpile of imports prior to the introduction of tariffs in April 2022 has contributed to the current figures.
Although the US has imposed a 10% tariff on imported spirits, India has emerged as a significant player in the Scotch whisky market, importing the equivalent of 220 million standard 70cl bottles—almost double that of the US. Much of this volume is supplied in bulk for blending with local spirits. Conversely, France saw a 14% decrease in Scotch imports, while markets in Germany and Turkey exhibited growth.
Mark Kent, CEO of the Scotch Whisky Association, addressed the difficulties facing the industry, stating, “The international trading environment continues to be challenging for Scotch whisky producers, with tariffs and geopolitical tensions causing significant turbulence in some key markets.”
Future Outlook and Market Dynamics
The whisky industry is grappling with rising production costs and new regulations, including packaging taxes. These factors are compounded by the uncertainty surrounding potential future tariffs on single malt Scotch, which could be reinstated following a suspension by the Biden administration. The next year will be crucial in assessing the long-term impact of these tariffs on the Scotch whisky market.
Meanwhile, the salmon sector is benefiting from increasing demand driven by cultural celebrations such as the Chinese New Year, where larger fish are sought after. The combination of established air freight routes and investment in facilities to enhance the export capacity positions the salmon industry favourably for future growth.
Why it Matters
The contrasting trajectories of Scottish salmon and whisky exports underscore the resilience and adaptability of the UK’s food and drink sectors. While the salmon industry continues to flourish amidst global demand, the whisky sector must navigate complex challenges posed by tariffs and market fluctuations. Understanding these dynamics is essential for stakeholders as they strategise for sustainability and growth in an evolving global marketplace.
