THE value of Scottish exports rose by 7% in the year to June, according to new figures.
The latest regional trade statistics from HMRC show export values hit £28.8 billion, an increase of £1.9bn compared with the same period the previous year.
Scotland had the highest percentage increase of any UK country. It was driven by a rise in the export of goods to the EU, up 18% to £14.9bn, while exports of oil and gas rose 29% to £7 billion.
Total UK exports to the EU increased by 7% over the period.
Economy Secretary Derek Mackay said: “Today’s figures are again positive for Scotland, clearly showing strong export growth across a range of areas.
“The Scottish Government continues to do everything in our power to support the Scottish economy and grow exports further, in spite of the uncertainty caused by Brexit.
“An export growth plan will see £20 million invested in a range of measures, including support for 150 businesses to increase overseas activity.”
Why are you making commenting on The National only available to subscribers?
We know there are thousands of National readers who want to debate, argue and go back and forth in the comments section of our stories. We’ve got the most informed readers in Scotland, asking each other the big questions about the future of our country.
Unfortunately, though, these important debates are being spoiled by a vocal minority of trolls who aren’t really interested in the issues, try to derail the conversations, register under fake names, and post vile abuse.
So that’s why we’ve decided to make the ability to comment only available to our paying subscribers. That way, all the trolls who post abuse on our website will have to pay if they want to join the debate – and risk a permanent ban from the account that they subscribe with.
The conversation will go back to what it should be about – people who care passionately about the issues, but disagree constructively on what we should do about them. Let’s get that debate started!
Callum Baird, Editor of The National
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here