This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Global Connections survey
20/12/2006
Scottish exports in 2005 were estimated to be worth £18.6 billion - up £0.9 billion on 2004 - with the US continuing to be the top destination for exports, according to official figures published today.
The fourth annual Global Connections Survey also has China in the top 20 destinations for the first time - at number 13.
The survey is carried out by the Executive with the support from Scottish Development International (SDI) and the co-operation of Local Enterprise Companies. It is the only export survey to cover all sectors of the Scottish economy.
Enterprise Minister Nicol Stephen said:
"I am encouraged that Scotland's overall exports are on the increase. In a fast-changing world nothing can be taken for granted - and the strong showing by, for example, our food and drink industries proves that quality should always find an international market.
"We can't be complacent. As the political map changes, as new economies emerge, there is a need for our export industries to adapt accordingly. With new markets comes more sellers, greater competition.
"I believe that Scottish business and Scottish innovation is world-class. By moving quickly Scottish companies can take a large chunk of the marketspunch above their weight in developing the emerging economies - and I am committed to seeing Scottish business take its place on the world stage.
"China offers fantastic potential and I am delighted to see it appear for the first time on the list of top export markets. Connecting globally is not all about exports though. Scottish companies are also investing substantially in countries like China and other fast-growing economies, forming trading alliances and that will ultimately help encourage investment back here in Scotland.
"In October I led a Scottish renewables energy trade delegation to a trade convention in Beijing - the first time ever these cutting-edge Scottish companies had shown their wares in China. As the world's second largest consumer of electricity, China offers a huge commercial opportunity, and Scotland is well placed to take advantage of it.
"We are committed to working with business through SDI to maximise opportunities in global markets, helping to ensure continued economic growth at home."