Planned trade talks are ‘great news’ for Scotland, says Murray

New trade talks to take place between the UK and a host of nations will be “great news” for Scotland, Scottish Secretary Ian Murray has insisted.

With the UK Government having confirmed its intention to hold discussions with a countries including India and the Gulf Co-operation Council – which brings together Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates – Mr Murray said these would pave the way for increased Scottish exports.

His comments came as UK Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds announced the UK Government’s intention to deliver trade talks with those nations as well as Israel, South Korea, Switzerland and Turkey.

The talks come as the Labour Government seeks ways to grow the UK economy, with a new trade strategy also planned.

The UK is already the world’s fourth largest exporter, with exports totalling £855 billion in 2022.

But Mr Murray suggested striking trade deals with other nations could see exports of Scottish products – such as whisky – increase further.

The  Scottish Secretary said: “Trade talks resuming between the UK Government and our global business partners is great news for Scotland. Brand Scotland means selling our country and all the amazing things we have to offer to the world and that is exactly what we intend to do.

“It will pave the way for further exports of Scotland’s world-class whisky and award-winning produce, as well as our expertise in financial and technology services – all crucial for driving economic growth that will unlock investment, support jobs and boost opportunity.

“I look forward to ensuring Scotland’s trade interests are championed on a worldwide scale.”

Mr Reynolds stressed: “Boosting trade abroad is essential to deliver a strong economy at home. That’s why I’ve wasted no time taking stock of progress and getting ready to press on with trade talks with our international partners.

“From the Gulf to India, our trade programme is ambitious and plays to the UK’s strengths to give British businesses access to some of the most exciting economies in the world.

“Our teams will be entering negotiating rooms as soon as possible, laser-focused on creating new opportunities for UK firms so they can support jobs across the country and deliver the growth we desperately need.”