Scotch Whisky Exports Soar
New analysis from the Scottish Government, based on the latest HMRC figures, shows the value of Scotch whisky exports from the UK has increased by 87 per cent over the last ten years from £2.3 billion in 2002 to £4.3 billion in 2012 – the latest figures available.
The volume of exports has also experienced a significant rise with 32 per cent more Scotch whisky going overseas over the same period.
Scotland’s Food and Drink Minister Richard Lochhead says: “Scotch Whisky is one of our most iconic products and these figures demonstrate the huge global demand for whisky. I’ve made growing the food and drink industry one of my main priorities since coming to office and I’m particularly pleased that these results show a 51 per cent rise in the value of exports since 2007.”
He adds: “We export to 173 countries, from theUnited States– which has more than doubled its spend on our national drink –Brazil and China, to Bermuda, Papua New Guinea and the Vatican City. This just exemplifies how important Scotch whisky is not only to the Scottish economy, but to our deserved reputation as a Land of Food and Drink.
It’s estimated that up to 50 million people world-wide can claim Scottish ancestry, and many more have a connection with Scotland through visiting, working or studying in Scotland.