Scottish Salmon urges further negotiations to obtain 10% U.S. tariffs after UK-US deal
Salmon Scotland, a trading body representing the UK’s largest food export, called on the British government to engage in further negotiations with the United States after confirming that a 10% tariff on Scottish salmon exports would be retained under the newly announced UK trade agreement.
After discussions with UK Food Security Minister Daniel Zeichner, Scott Scott, CEO of Scottish Salmon, said the deal marked a positive step, but warned that it should be seen as a “stage, not a destination” to reduce barriers to the industry.
“Scottish salmon enjoys in 50 countries around the world and we welcome strong trade relations with overseas markets,” Scott said. “However, the 10% tariff on exports to the United States remains a barrier and we want to see it cleared.”
The United States is Scotland's second largest export market, accounting for £225 million in 2024, exceeding more than a quarter of the UK's total salmon exports. Although Scottish salmon is considered a popular Scottish salmon with premium products, exporters face a disadvantage of unfavorable competition compared to countries like Chile (countries like Chile).
Scott is the world's largest seafood trade event after meeting with British officials and salmon business at Barcelona's Seafood Expo.
Scott also welcomed the UK-Indian trade agreement announced this week, which included the removal of 33% tariffs on salmon exports, a move he described as a “welcome step” and clearly illustrates the benefits of close government industry collaboration.
“This shows what the government can achieve when working with our sector to open up new opportunities,” he said.
As the international market grows strategic importance to the industry, Scottish Salmon urges ministers to continue trade negotiations with the United States to level the playing field and unlock further economic growth and job creation in coastal communities.
The salmon agriculture industry supports thousands of work across Scotland and has made a significant contribution to the UK’s agricultural food exports. But the 10% tariff on U.S.-bound salmon retained under the new trade agreement remains a cost burden for producers and a competitive disadvantage in one of the world's most profitable seafood markets.
“We want to build on our success in the United States, not be blocked by unnecessary obstacles,” Scott added.
As Britain continues to reshape its global trade relations after Brexit, the salmon sector urges policymakers to use trade diplomacy to eliminate friction and open UK exports.
Scott concluded: “Today’s United States – the U.S. deal should be seen as a stage, not a destination – on the road to reducing trade barriers, getting jobs in Scotland and driving economic growth.”
