THE success of Scottish whisky underlines the strength of Scotland’s economy, the SNP have said.
It comes after a report found that the industry brought £7.1 billion into the UK economy in 2022, with the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA) – the trade body for the sector – saying the gross value added (GVA) of whisky in 2022 had increased by 29% since 2018.
The industry is worth £5.3bn to Scotland alone, equating to around 3% of total GVA.
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The drink amounted to 77% of Scotland’s foot and drink exports, as well as 26% for the UK overall.
The SNP has said that these findings show that Scotland continues to punch well above its weight in terms of contributing to the UK’s economy – despite being repeatedly short-changed by Westminster.
Similarly, Scottish salmon is the UK’s largest food export, and brings in £611 million to the UK economy on a rolling basis.
The SNP has said that these figures underline the potential strength and longevity of the Scottish economy in a future independent Scotland.
Commenting, Kevin Stewart MSP (above) said: “I welcome these figures which show that once again Scottish Whisky continues to lead the way in UK exports – bringing in an impressive £7.1bn in 2022, despite increased challenges on the sector following the Tory’s botched Brexit deal, and the cost of living crisis.
“Scottish produce continues to make up the lion’s share of UK exports and generates considerable wealth for the UK’s economy – not that this is in any way reflected in what Scotland receives from Westminster’s budget.
“The numbers here speak for themselves – Scotland has the skill, the industries, and the economic strength to go it alone. With the financial levers of independence, Scotland would receive the full rewards of its exports, without needing to wait for Westminster handouts.”
