Glasgow Prestwick Airport launches new Scotland to China seafood export service

Glasgow Prestwick Airport (PIK) has launched a new Scotland to China seafood export service following a one-million-pound investment in new equipment and the creation of a dedicated cool chain team.

The airport has invested in high-volume metal detectors, temperature exposure and tracking systems, and four chillers (87-ton capacity) in a dedicated facility to handle seafood exports to China and mainland Europe.

“The value of Scottish salmon exports reached a record GBP844 million in 2024, with the Chinese market growing by 60% in value and 107% in volume,” said Ian Forgie, Chief Executive Officer, Glasgow Prestwick Airport.

“Our in-house expertise coupled with our significant investment makes PIK a standout hub for the Scottish seafood industry and we are prepared to meet growing demand.”

PIK’s close proximity to the fish farms provides seafood producers significant benefits, including an 18-hour shelf life extension by reducing Farm-to-Flight transit times, lower trucking costs, and consequent reductions in CO2 emissions.

“The new dedicated service from Glasgow Prestwick Airport strengthens our ability to meet growing demand in China and across Asia, while supporting jobs and communities in Scotland’s coastal and rural areas,” said Tavish Scott, Chief Executive of Salmon Scotland.

“This investment is a welcome boost to our sector and will support Scotland’s already exemplary export performance.”

China - Scottish Salmon exports reached GBP76 million last year, marking a 60% increase compared to the previous year, with just over 8,175 tons exported, making China the third-largest market for Scottish salmon in 2024.

"Creating a cool chain solution at PIK is a game-changer for Scottish seafood producers," added Forgie.

“PIK’s facilities make it an attractive destination for Chinese freighters, and the benefits of eight weekly flights to Asia make exporting perishables from PIK, rather than from London airports, an easy decision for the Scottish seafood industry to make.”

Scott’s comments follow a recent visit by Alan Gemmell, Member of Parliament (MP), Central Ayrshire, Scotland, UK, who also expressed admiration of PIK’s 2025 growth both in terms of cargo volumes and employment opportunities for the local community.