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Scottish Government
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A union of business partners
FM urges Scottish businesses to seize on European opportunities.
Forging new relationships with businesses in Europe will see exports of Scottish goods rise and result in economic growth, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has said.
Speaking at the Scottish Council for Development and Industry (SCDI) Annual Forum, the First Minister highlighted the need for Scottish firms to internationalise their businesses.
The recently launched Scotland’s Economic Strategy has a focus on internationalising Scotland and the need to build on existing and create new business relationships with EU countries.
The strategy aims to encourage a greater international emphasis among Scottish businesses to rebalance and deliver sustainable economic growth to Scotland’s economy.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said:
“Scotland has gained a reputation as a country of quality, be that our people, products or potential. But we can do so much more.
“We need Scottish companies to broaden their horizons and seize on the opportunities that are outwith our shores. Not only will it benefit their own firms, but it will also rebalance and grow Scotland’s economy.
“That’s why the Scottish Government is a strong advocate of Scotland remaining within the European Union; we know how much we benefit from it. It is vital to Scotland.
“We export almost £13 billion of goods and services to the EU a year which equates to 46% of our international exports, and is estimated to support around 330,000 Scottish jobs. However, there are a plethora of prospects still out there for our businesses.
“That’s why there is so little support in Scottish politics for leaving the EU. We stand to lose crucial business and trading partners. This Scottish Government is a strong advocate of the benefits of being part of Europe. Scotland is stronger in Europe. We must not be dragged out of the EU against our will and we will fight to remain as part of the European Union.”
Notes To Editors
Read the First Minister’s speech
More on Scotland’s Economic Strategy
Scotland Global Connections Survey
UK jobs supported by exports to the EU
