As record investment helps the salmon industry to expand, the impact of salmon farming on Scotland's economy is also growing, with particular benefits for employment in remote communities.
According to the Scottish Salmon Producers' Association, employees' gross pay now totals £53.7 million, a 90% increase since 2006/7.
The majority of those employed in the industry are based in the Highlands and Islands, many in remote, rural communities where regular work can be hard to come by.
The industry claims that its economic impact extends beyond direct employment, as those working in fish farming will invest in their local economies as well.
If the Government 'income multiplier' formula is applied, every £1 paid to fish farm employees is estimated to generate a further £4.58 for the local economy.
The seafood sector was the single biggest contributor to food exports from Scotland in 2010, with international sales of £620 million, and demand looks set to grow in future.
Anne MacColl, Chief Executive of Scottish Development International, believes the industry is well placed to cope with developments: "With worldwide demand for fish from aquaculture growing fast an an increasing reputation for producing high quality products, Scotland is well placed to meet rising demand across established markets, such as the USA and France, as well as emerging markets, such as the Middle East, Russia and China," she says.
"With a supportive Government, collaborative effort across the industry and an ambitious company base, there is no doubt that sales of Scottish salmon will continue to enjoy sustained growth."
The table below shows the growing impact of salmon farming in key regions across Scotland, and indicates the likely economic effect.
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