John Swinney says links with Japan ‘hugely valuable’ as he hosts ambassador

John Swinney has said Scotland’s relationship with Japan is “hugely valuable” after he hosted the Japanese ambassador to the UK at his official residence.

Hiroshi Suzuki visited Bute House in Edinburgh on Thursday evening, alongside a group of prominent Japanese business representatives.

On Friday, the First Minister and the ambassador will visit a whisky distillery to highlight ties between Scotland and the East Asian nation.

Mr Suzuki is known for posting brief social media videos of himself enjoying cuisine and culture around the UK, with one showing him taking a bite of haggis and declaring it “fantastic”.

Recent Japanese investments in Scotland include Sumitomo Electric’s plans to build a high-voltage cable factory in the Highlands, which would supply the offshore energy industry.

Before the visit the First Minister said: “Our relationship with Japan is both long-standing and hugely valuable to Scotland’s economy.

“Both countries share a mutually beneficial working relationship on key future industries, such as the green energy transition, AI and biotech.

“Japan is also a key trading partner for Scottish businesses, especially those operating within our whisky sector. In 2024, whisky exports to Japan reached £182 million, up over 7.1% from 2023.

“I am committed to strengthening these ties and improving co-operation between both countries in the years to come.”