Scots food exports booming

SCOTLAND’S food and drink exports increased by over 11% in the first quarter of this year, compared with the same period in 2016.

The boom means that in the first three months of 2017, food and drink worth £1.2 billion was exported – an increase of £124 million on last year.

The EU remains Scotland’s largest regional export market outside of the UK, with exports growing by £50 million.

Statistics also show Scotch whisky exports increased by £79 million while fish and seafood, the largest food sector, grew by £48 million.

Rural Economy Secretary Fergus Ewing said 2016 was a “record year for Scotland’s food and drink” – with the new figures showing further growth.