Scotland’s food and drink exports increased by over 11 per cent in the first quarter of this year, compared with the same period in 2016.
In the first three months of 2017, food and drink worth £1.2 billion was exported, an increase of £124 million on 2016.
The EU remains Scotland’s largest regional export market outside of the UK, with exports growing by £50 million.
Statistics also show that total food exports were valued at £371 million, up £45.5 million (14%) on Q1 last year.
Among these, Scotch whisky exports increased by £79 million while fish and seafood, the largest food sector, grew by £48 million.
North America was the second largest export destination for food and drink, with the Asia and Oceania region third.
'Strength to strength'
Rural Economy Secretary Fergus Ewing said 2016 was a record year for Scotland’s food and drink exports.
He said: “These new figures clearly show that the sector is going from strength to strength.
“Food exports for example have grown by 14% on the same period last year, which is a testament to the fantastic work being undertaken in partnership with the industry to increase access and open up new markets.
“What is clear from these figures is that maintaining access to the EU single market is crucial for our food and drink producers and our wider economy.
Losing access will put Scottish industry at a significant disadvantage, exposing business to damaging export tariff barriers and regulatory requirements.”
