Boost for Scottish salmon exports as new flights to China launched

A new direct flight from Scotland to China has been launched from Prestwick Airport in a move likely to boost salmon exports to the Chinese market.

Air China Cargo’s freighter service from Guangzhou to Prestwick will fly three times a week initially, the Herald reported.

This brings the total number of flights on the route to seven a week, after China Southern Air Logistics began four weekly flights from Prestwick last month, with plans for this to increase to a daily service.

"Massive surge"

Scottish salmon exports to China and Taiwan saw a “massive surge” last year, according to Salmon Scotland, more than doubling in value, making the region among the top four destinations for the UK’s biggest food export.

Exports to China earned £76 million and to Taiwan £27 million in 2024 and the improved logistics will support further growth in the market.

Prestwick, owned by the Scottish government since 2013, has invested £2.3 million in equipment in the last 12 months and is continuing to invest in ground handling equipment and cool chain supply facilities, as well as employing more staff, to maximise its capabilities in handling large freighters.

Scottish exporters

Prestwick Airport’s chief executive, Ian Forgie, said of the latest launch he was “excited to see the possibilities for Scottish exporters”.

Following the launch of the first service in May, he said: "The airport team has been working hard over the last 12 months to showcase the Prestwick solution as an alternative cargo gateway into the UK, and the board is delighted that a flagship carrier, China Southern Air Logistics, has established a scheduled service from China to Prestwick.

"We anticipate this new trade route will grow rapidly in 2025 as Prestwick delivers on its plans and the market responds to an alternative cargo gateway into the UK and a new direct export route to China from Scotland for high-value Scottish seafood and whisky.

"We are in discussions with other airlines and expect to make further announcements soon."