Indian market a ‘golden opportunity’ for Scottish food and drink firms – Swinney

The Indian market represents a “golden opportunity” to Scottish food and drink businesses, John Swinney has said ahead of a trade mission to the country.

The First Minister will spend a week in the country, leaving on Tuesday, where he will seek to “build connections and seize opportunities”.

Ahead of flying out to India, he will visit a cold storage facility at Heathrow Airport in London, where he will see Scottish salmon being prepared to be exported.

“India is a growing market, offering a golden opportunity for Scotland’s food and drink businesses, higher education sector, tourism and more,” the First Minister said.

“We must strengthen our economic and cultural ties with India for the benefit of jobs, investment and growth in every part of the country.

“This trade mission to Delhi, Ahmedabad and Mumbai will support Scottish businesses to build connections and seize opportunities that could support jobs and prosperity in all parts of Scotland.

“Supported by a delegation of representatives from different businesses and sectors, including Salmon Scotland, this programme will promote Scotland on the global stage as an attractive place to trade with, invest in, study in and visit.

“As the top food export for the whole of the United Kingdom, Scottish salmon is a true success story for Scottish food and drink and is a shining example of what Scottish businesses can achieve when international connections are deepened and opportunities are harnessed.”

Tavish Scott, chief executive of Salmon Scotland, welcomed the First Minister’s visit to Heathrow.

“I am pleased that the First Minister has taken time to view the impressive air freight logistics operation at London Heathrow,” he said.

“This is an important element in how salmon from Scotland reaches customers in 50 countries around the globe.

“The opening of the Indian market as tariffs are removed is a welcome step reinforced by the number of Indian cities that are connected to Heathrow by direct air services.

“Salmon Scotland are grateful for the First Minister and Scottish Government’s recognition of this and we look forward to serving the Indian customers’ needs for salmon for many years to come.”