Scotland’s food and drink producers have once again shown their world-class credentials, with new figures revealing that the nation’s exports far outstrip those of England on a per person basis.
The research, compiled by the Scottish Parliament Information Centre, puts the total value of Scotland’s food and drink exports at an impressive £7.1 billion last year.
Scottish products found their way to 107 countries across the globe, the equivalent of £1,311 of exports for every person living in Scotland.
By contrast, England’s total exports in the same sector amounted to £12.1 billion, which works out at just £212 per person.
The figures shine a bright light on the extraordinary demand for Scotland’s produce.
From our iconic whiskies to prized seafood, meat and dairy, the world clearly cannot get enough of what Scotland has to offer.
This is a remarkable achievement for a country of five and a half million people.
Yet the success comes despite significant political headwinds.
The SNP has warned that decisions made by Westminster governments, particularly around Brexit and trade policy, are creating needless barriers for Scotland’s producers.
SNP MSP Emma Harper praised the resilience of the sector.
She said:
“These figures are a huge credit to Scotland’s food and drink producers, who continue to punch well above their weight internationally.”
“Our whisky, seafood, meat and dairy products are world famous and clearly in high demand around the globe.”
Harper added that Scotland’s exporters could do even more if the political climate were different.
“Instead of being held back by Westminster’s Brexit blunders and one-size-fits-all trade deals, an independent Scotland could negotiate on our own terms, rejoin the EU single market and support our exporters directly.”
“Scotland’s food and drink sector is thriving despite the barriers put in its way.
“With independence, we could remove those barriers and truly unleash our global potential.”
Whatever the political debate, there can be no doubt that Scotland’s food and drink producers are delivering on the world stage.
It is a story of craftsmanship, pride and international recognition that continues to grow.
