Scotland’s salmon sector is making an enhanced effort to promote its products in India after the world’s most populous country opened the door to Scottish fish imports by scrapping a 33% tariff as part of a trade deal with the UK.
Scottish salmon is being promoted on three separate trade visits this month. First, representatives of salmon farmers Mowi Scotland, Scottish Sea Farms, Bakkafrost Scotland, and Loch Duart were in New Delhi last week as part of a trade visit by sector body Salmon Scotland.
The Forum of Indian Food Importers (FIFI), in collaboration with the UK India Business Council (UKIBC) and Scottish Salmon, brought together the producers, Indian seafood importers, executive chefs, and hospitality professionals for an industry roundtable, B2B matchmaking showcase and networking reception in New Delhi.
Understanding the market :
Discussions covered sourcing opportunities, cold-chain requirements, import compliance protocols and distribution channels, with a focus on understanding the requirements for bringing premium seafood products to the Indian market, reports Hospitality Biz India.com.
Amit Lohani, founder director of FIFI and of seafood impoter Max Inc., said: “India presents significant opportunities for international food producers, but converting that potential into sustainable business requires a clear understanding of the market, import regulations, supply-chain requirements and the needs of Indian buyers. Direct interactions between producers and importers help bridge this gap by enabling businesses to evaluate sourcing possibilities and build reliable trade relationships.”
James Park, head of international trade and engagement at Salmon Scotland, was part of the delegation and addressed the meeting, along with British High Commission attaché Penny Rogers and Lohani.
UK Government mission :
Park stayed on to join a UK Government trade mission to India this week, joining Scottish Secretary Douglas Alexander and some of his UK Government Cabinet colleagues Jonathan Reynolds, the Business and Trade Secretary, and Angela Eagle, Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.
“This year the UK Government has secured real, practical wins that are opening up new markets for our exporters – including cutting whisky, soft drink and salmon tariffs in the India trade deal,” said Alexander.
“Now, I want to make sure Scottish companies can turn those wins into real contracts and real growth, by helping them navigate the valuable Indian market.”