Survival rates of farmed salmon in Scotland have reached record highs following a multi-million-pound investment in technology. New data from Salmon Scotland shows monthly survival averaged 99.12 % between January and June of the current year, the best start to a year since data was first voluntarily published in 2018. These results reflect continued improvements in fish health and environmental conditions. Since 2018, the sector has invested more than £1 billion in innovation across veterinary care, technology and stock management.

This strong start to 2025 builds on last year’s progress. Cumulative mortality, the total number of fish deaths over time, fell by more than a third in 2024. Overall survival across all farms reached 82.3 %, up 10 percentage points from 72.3 % the year before. Higher survival rates mean more high-protein, low-carbon meals are reaching consumers, boosting food security and fueling economic growth through rising sales at home and abroad.

Figure 1. Mortality rates. Source: Salmon Scotland

Exports rose by 45 % to a record £844 million last year, equivalent to £2.31 million per day, cementing Scottish salmon as the UK’s largest food export. Domestic sales also increased by 9.1 % in the 12 months to June 2024, with salmon remaining the UK’s most popular fish.

The chief executive of Salmon Scotland, Tavish Scott said: “These figures demonstrate our members’ commitment to fish health and welfare, and responsible farming. The Scottish salmon farmers uphold the highest animal welfare standards in the world, but they are always striving to do better. In this sense, the hard work of the farmers, supported by more than a billion pounds of investment in new technology, has been rewarded with survival rates at record highs.” Scott also mentioned: “At the same time, demand for Scottish salmon is soaring at home and overseas. This is due to its reputation for quality and sustainability, and the vital role it plays in supporting coastal communities and the wider economy.”