Free trade deal expected to boost Scottish salmon sales in Gulf states

A new free trade deal in the Middle East is expected to provide a boost for Scottish exports amid global economic uncertainty, Scotland’s salmon farming trade body has said. 

Salmon Scotland said the deal between the UK and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) ensures permanent tariff-free access for UK goods to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, removing 5% tariffs on some salmon exports. 

The UK exported 670 tonnes of Scottish salmon worth £6.5 million to the GCC states in 2025. 

Sales remain strong

Despite the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, which has resulted in greater uncertainty for market access, higher air freight and insurance costs, sales have continued strongly in 2026 as exporters and distributors look to maintain consistency of supply for consumers across the region. 

The UAE was the largest importer of Scottish salmon among the GCC states last year with a market worth £3.9 million. Qatar was the second largest, with exports growing 30% in a year to 79 tonnes. 

HMRC figures indicate the trading bloc accounts for more than half (54%) of all Scottish salmon exported to the Middle East and North Africa region. 

Exports to the GGC contributed to international sales of more than £828 million in 2025 and helped cement Scottish salmon’s place as the UK’s biggest food export.

Salmon is also the UK’s favourite fish, with sales soaring to £1.5 billion in the 12 months to August, amid rising demand. 

Increased opportunities

Tavish Scott, chief executive of Salmon Scotland, said: “Stability and international support at a time of international volatility is important for solidarity with our trading partners as well as for our exporters and customers. 

“Removing tariffs and improving market access across the trading bloc will increase the opportunities for our producers to grow Scottish salmon exports to the region. 

“We welcome the work and ambition across the UK Government and the GCC economic alliance to make this agreement and we look forward to its ratification and entry into force.”