UK-EU trade deal 'essential' for Scottish economy

Statistics showed food exports increased by 24% to £770 million
Statistics showed food exports increased by 24% to £770 million

Scottish food and drink exports to Europe grew by £119m in the first half of 2017, official figures show.

The 9% increase in the value of total exports to £2.5 billion was fuelled by exports to the EU over the past 6 months.

The food and drink industry has said the figures are a reminder that a UK-EU trade deal is "essential" for the Scottish economy.

Statistics also showed food exports increased by 24% to £770 million, Scottish whisky exports grew £57 and fish and seafood exports are up 38% to £459 million. The EU accounted for 69% of all food exports.

Scotland's rural secretary Fergus Ewing said the figures highlight the importance of continued access to "vital European markets".

“I am committed to doing everything I can to help support our food and drinks industry to export more, and to more markets, as outlined in the industry-led Ambition 2030 strategy that aims to double the sector’s turnover by 2030,” Mr Ewing said.

“Our larder is world renowned for its quality and diversity, and these figures clearly demonstrate how our industry is continuing to go from strength to strength.”

James Withers, Scotland Food and Drink chief executive said the figures are a "reminder" that a comprehensive trade deal between the UK and EU is "essential" for the Scottish economy.