EDINBURGH, Scotland, Jan. 12 (UPI) -- The Chinese government, for the first time, reached an agreement to import Atlantic salmon from Scotland, the fisheries secretary said from Edinburgh.
Chinese demand for salmon and salmon products is more than Scotland produces in a year. China is one of the largest seafood markets in the world and the Scottish government said it expected demand for Atlantic salmon to increase.
Scotland is the third-largest producer of Atlantic salmon in the world.
"The Scottish salmon industry is committed to nurturing a responsible, sustainable and environmentally aware future based on strong fishing heritage and traditions," said Scottish Fisheries Secretary Richard Lochhead.
Exports of Atlantic salmon bring in more than $470 million for the Scottish government. Exports rose from around 55,000 tons in 2009 to more than 60,000 tons in 2010.
"This is a very welcome announcement from China that will boost sales of top quality and sought after Scottish seafood products," added Lochhead in a statement.
