SCOTTISH FOOD and drink exports to Europe grew by £119 million in the first half of 2017.

An overall 9% increase in Scotland's total exports, up to £2.5 billion, was largely fuelled by growth in exports to the EU – prompting rural economy secretary Fergus Ewing to stress the importance of continued access to European markets after Brexit.

"The EU accounted for 69% of our total food and 31% of our drinks exports – a significant, and potentially at risk amount," said Mr Ewing.

“I am committed to doing everything I can to help support our food and drinks industry to export more, and to more markets, as outlined in the industry-led Ambition 2030 strategy that aims to double the sector’s turnover by 2030. Our larder is world renowned for its quality and diversity, and these figures clearly demonstrate how our industry is continuing to go from strength to strength.”

Scotland Food and Drink chief executive James Withers said: "This is another boost to Scotland’s food export performance, with international trade rising by a quarter from the same time last year. With nearly 70% of food exports destined for Europe, these figures are a further reminder that a comprehensive trade deal between the UK and EU is essential for our industry and the Scottish economy. 

"With Scottish food and drink making huge strides across North America and the Far East, with Scottish trade staff opening doors overseas, this export success story has much farther still to go."