1. Scotland's Vision for Trade: annual report - October 2024

    Our third annual report on Scotland's Vision for Trade, outlining the range of specific actions that we have taken over the past year and our continued ambition to make trade-related decisions based on the principles of inclusive growth, wellbeing, sustainability, net zero and good governance

  2. Building economic opportunities in Asia

    Extending international business links.

  3. International competitiveness: overview

    This paper considers Scotland’s competitiveness, with a particular focus on Scotland’s attractiveness for inward investment. It sets out measures and international comparisons of competitiveness and considers key drivers. It includes a focus on Scotland’s financial services sector.

  4. Climate change - Scottish National Adaptation Plan 2024-2029: business and regulatory impact assessment

    Business and regulatory impact assessment (BRIA) undertaken for the Scottish National Adaptation Plan 2024-2029.

  5. Climate change: Scottish National Adaptation Plan 2024 - 2029 - easy read

    Easy read version of the Scottish National Adaptation Plan 2024-29. The Adaptation Plan sets out the actions that the Scottish Government and partners will take to respond to the impacts of climate change from 2024 to 2029.

  6. Climate change: Scottish National Adaptation Plan 2024-2029

    Sets out the actions that the Scottish Government and partners will take to respond to the impacts of climate change. This Adaptation Plan sets out actions from 2024 to 2029.

  7. Scottish Taskforce for Green and Sustainable Financial Services Final Report: SG Response

    Scottish Taskforce for Green and Sustainable Financial Services Final Report: SG Response to the Recommendations.

  8. Green industrial strategy

    This publication identifies areas of strength and opportunity for Scotland to grow globally competitive industries in the transition to net zero. It outlines what government and partners will do to support stakeholders to create an enabling environment for investment and growth.

  9. Overcoming barriers to the engagement of supply-side actors in Scotland's peatland natural capital markets - Annexes Volume

    Research with landowners and managers in Scotland to better understand their motivations and preferences to help inform the design of policy and finance mechanisms for high-integrity peatland natural capital markets.

  10. Overcoming barriers to the engagement of supply-side actors in Scotland's peatland natural capital markets - Final Report

    Research with landowners and managers in Scotland to better understand their motivations and preferences to help inform the design of policy and finance mechanisms for high-integrity peatland natural capital markets.

  11. COP28 net-zero exports close to £70 million

    Scotland ‘leading the way’ on global climate action and just transition.

  12. Inspiring Connections: Scotland's International Culture Strategy - Gaelic Version

    ’S e amas na ro-innleachd taic a chur ri roinn cultair is chruthachail na h-Alba a bhith ceangailte aig ìre na cruinne gus an coilean i a h-amasan is comasan eadar-nàiseanta, is a bhith a’ cur ri math cultarail, sòisealta, eaconamach is àrainneachd na h-Alba tro a h-obair eadar-nàiseanta.

  13. Inspiring Connections: Scotland's International Culture Strategy

    This strategy aims to support Scotland's culture and creative sector to be globally connected with the means and opportunities to achieve its international ambitions and potential, and contribute to Scotland’s cultural, social, economic and environmental wellbeing through its international work.

  14. Inspiring Connections: Scotland's International Culture Strategy - EasyRead version

    An EasyRead version of Inspiring Connections: Scotland’s International Culture Strategy.

  15. International Culture Strategy: Partial Business Regulatory Impact Assessment (BRIA)

    A partial Business Regulatory Impact Assessment (BRIA) to support the development of an International Culture Strategy.

  16. International culture strategy: equality impact assessment

    Findings from an equality impact assessment of our international culture strategy.

  17. Building a New Scotland: An independent Scotland's Place in the World

    This paper sets out the Scottish Government's proposals for an independent Scotland's place in the world.

  18. Building a New Scotland - an independent Scotland's place in the world: easy read version

    This paper sets out the Scottish Government's proposals for an independent Scotland's place in the world.

  19. Rural and island community support

    Spring Budget needs to invest in environment and food production.

  20. The Environment Strategy for Scotland: Delivering the Environment Strategy Outcome on Scotland's Global Footprint - Evidence Base & Policy Levers

    This report presents evidence and initial recommendations on how the Scottish Government could use the available policy levers to help ensure Scotland’s international environmental impact is sustainable.

  21. The Environment Strategy for Scotland: Reducing Scotland's International Environmental Impact - Learning from International Best Practices

    This report supports the research project ‘Delivering the Environment Strategy Outcome on Scotland’s Global Footprint: Evidence Base and Policy Levers’. It summarises examples of international best practice in relation to policy levers for achieving a sustainable global footprint.

  22. Potato exports guide

    Information on the conditions and phytosanitary requirements for the export of Scottish potatoes, where known by country.

  23. Scotland's International Strategy

    This strategy sets out our approach to international engagement and delivery to the end of the current parliamentary term.

  24. Am Plana Nàiseanta airson Dùthaich a tha Math a Thaobh Biadh: Sgrìobhainn Chochomhairleachaidh

    This consultation covers the content of the national Good Food Nation Plan. It seeks views on the Outcomes; ways of measuring progress; and how different groups envision life in a Good Food Nation. It also seeks views on specified functions. This is a Gaelic translation of the consultation.

  25. Geàrr-iomradh air a' Phlana Nàiseanta airson Dùthaich a tha Math a Thaobh Biadh

    The national Good Food Nation Plan sets out six over-arching Outcomes; the range of targets and indicators that will be used to gauge progress towards achieving them; and details of food-related policies and initiatives from across the Scottish Government. This is a Gaelic summary of the Plan.

  26. National Good Food Nation Plan: consultation - easy read

    Easy read version of our consultation on the national Good Food Nation Plan, which sets out the Government's goals for food and how we will achieve them.

  27. National Good Food Nation Plan

    The national Good Food Nation Plan sets out six over-arching Outcomes for a Good Food Nation; the range of targets and indicators that will be used to gauge progress towards achieving them; and details of a wide range of food-related policies and initiatives from across the Scottish Government.

  28. National Good Food Nation Plan: consultation

    We are consulting on the first national Good Food Nation Plan. We are seeking views on the national Good Food Nation Outcomes, ways of measuring progress and how different groups envision life in a Good Food Nation. It also seeks views on specified functions.

  29. International culture strategy: consultation analysis

    Analysis of responses to the public consultation for the international culture strategy.

  30. International culture strategy: consultation analysis - executive summary - easy read

    Analysis of responses to the public consultation for the international culture strategy.

  31. Investor Panel recommendations: Scottish Government response

    The Scottish Government agrees with the Panel that there are characteristics of investor friendly states that Scotland should seek to emulate and that require a new and very different approach if Scotland is to attract the scale of global capital required. The Government accepts this challenge.

  32. Investor Panel: Mobilising international capital to finance the transition to Net Zero

    Large scale private capital investment is needed to enable Scotland’s just transition to net zero. The Investor Panel’s proposals will help to make Scotland a globally competitive investment destination. They include clear priorities, more agile decision making and upskilling Ministers and officials

  33. Team Scotland's Export Promotion Support: evaluation

    Summary findings of an evaluation of delivery partner support and services offered to businesses with export sales projects in Scotland between April 2018 and April 2021.

  34. Taking a feminist approach to international relations: position paper

    This position paper sets out the scope and guiding principles of our feminist approach to international relations.

  35. Vision for sustainable aquaculture: island communities impact assessment

    Island communities impact assessment for the vision for sustainable aquaculture.

  36. Vision for sustainable aquaculture

    The Vision for sustainable aquaculture describes the Scottish Government’s long-term aspirations to 2045 for the finfish, shellfish and seaweed farming sectors, and the wider aquaculture supply chain.

  37. Vision for sustainable aquaculture: child rights and wellbeing screening sheet

    Child rights and wellbeing screening sheet for the Vision for sustainable aquaculture

  38. Agricultural food and drink sector - impact of future UK Free Trade Agreement scenarios: research

    This research assesses the impacts of future Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) between the UK and four selected non-EU trading partners on key Scottish agricultural sectors. The work combines trade-model and farm-level analysis, supplemented by industry interviews and desk-based research.

  39. Team Scotland's inward investment support: evaluation

    An evaluation of delivery partner support and services offered to companies with inward investment projects in Scotland between 2018 to 2019 and 2020 to 2021.

  40. Scotland's Vision for Trade: annual report - June 2023

    Our second annual report on Scotland's Vision for Trade, outlining the range of specific actions that we have taken over the past year and our continued ambition to make trade-related decisions based on the principles of inclusive growth, wellbeing, sustainability, net zero and good governance.

  41. Scottish trade outperforming other UK nations

    Office for National Statistics data indicates “very positive” signs for Scotland.

  42. Entrepreneurial Campus: summary

    Summary of The Entrepreneurial Campus: The higher education sector as a driving force for the entrepreneurial ecosystem.

  43. Just transition for the built environment and construction sector: a discussion paper

    This discussion paper is intended to support engagement on a just transition for the built environment and construction sector. Building on this engagement, a draft targeted action plan and route map (late 23/24) will outline the key steps to delivering a fair transition for the sector.

  44. Mobilising private investment in natural capital: report

    This report looks at how to encourage responsible private investment into peatland restoration, including how to overcome barriers to scaling voluntary carbon markets to restore peatland in Scotland.

  45. Equality, opportunity, community: New leadership - A fresh start

    This publication sets out the First Minister’s vision for Scotland and the outcomes he and his government aim to achieve by 2026.

  46. A Trading Nation – framework to grow Scotland's renewables exports

    This framework reaffirms the commitments made from ‘A Trading Nation’ to ensure our trade and investment agenda is front and centre of our economic growth strategy. Outlines how we can work in partnership with industry to identify opportunities to grow exports around the world.

  47. International culture strategy: survey

    We are seeking views to inform the development of a strategy to support the international aspirations and potential of Scotland’s culture sector.

  48. International culture strategy: survey - easy read

    We are seeking views to inform the development of a strategy to support the international aspirations and potential of Scotland’s culture sector.

  49. Attracting Investment for a net zero future

    Developing policy with green investors in mind.

  50. A Trading Nation: progress review 2022

    Three years into the delivery of our 10 year export growth strategy, A Trading Nation (ATN), our strategy remains firmly focused on the recovery and growth of Scotland’s exports through values-based trade. This review documents our progress and delivery so far.

  51. Shaping Scotland's economy: inward investment plan

    Shaping Scotland’s Economy: Scotland’s Inward Investment Plan sets out our ambition for Scotland as a leading destination for inward investment aligned with our values as a nation.

  52. Concerns over Free Trade Agreement

    UK’s deal with New Zealand “damaging” to Scottish farmers and food producers.

  53. Delivering Scotland’s trading aims

    Revitalised Trade Board membership.

  54. Safeguarding the food and drink sector

    Chancellor urged to avoid trade war.

  55. New US Trade and Investment Envoys

    Extending international business links.

  56. Strengthening bonds with US and Canada

    Cabinet Secretary engagements in North America.

  57. Vision for Trade annual report

    A responsible approach to global markets.

  58. Growing tech exports

    Action plan published to identify new markets and opportunities.

  59. Urgent action needed to tackle cost of living

    Finance Secretary writes to Treasury ahead of Spring Statement.

  60. Economic Crime Bill

    Greater powers to fight corruption.

  61. Stop trading with Russia

    Businesses urged to show solidarity to Ukraine.

  62. Deal agreed to establish Green Freeports

    Scottish and UK Government reach agreement.

  63. Scottish success at World Expo

    Companies secure contracts from global showcase.

  64. International travel testing updated

    Scotland to align with UK testing regime.

  65. Investing with Purpose: global capital investment plan

    Plan articulating the important role private capital investment can play in driving an investment-led recovery. The plan focuses on sectors where Scotland can demonstrate a real international comparative advantage, and marks a pivot in our approach towards targeting ESG investment.

  66. New border control post at Cairnryan

    Site to be used for post-Brexit import inspections.

  67. Scotland’s Vision for Trade

    Economic, social and climate ambitions at heart of approach.

  68. Trade: our vision

    The trade vision sets out our trade principles of inclusive growth, wellbeing, sustainability, net zero and good governance. These principles are rooted in Scotland’s National Performance Framework and will underpin the trading and investment relationships we want for Scotland.

  69. Response to agreement to reopen French border

    Call to prioritise perishable goods hauliers.

  70. Shaping Scotland's Economy – inward investment plan: Fairer Scotland Duty Assessment

    Fairer Scotland Duty Assessment (FSDA) - an evidence based assessment of potential direct or indirect socio-economic and inequalities of outcome impacts from delivery of Shaping Scotland's Economy, Scotland's Inward Investment Plan.

  71. Finance, Constitution Committee briefed on Single Market

    Proposal ‘bad for consumers and business, and disastrous for devolution’.

  72. Parliament briefed on risks from a UK Internal Market

    Constitution Secretary calls UK White Paper “disastrous for devolution”.

  73. Coronavirus (COVID-19): the case for extending the Brexit transition period

    This paper sets out why it is vital, if we are to ensure the most rapid recovery possible from the COVID-19 crisis, that the UK Government immediately seeks an extension to the Brexit transition period (scheduled to finish on 31 December 2020) for two years.

  74. ‘Reckless’ approach to US trade talks

    Proposed deal damaging for Scotland.

  75. UK mandate will hit Scotland’s economy

    EU talks plan sets “extraordinarily low bar.”

  76. Scottish exports increase

    Figures show growing value of European market.

  77. Boosting Scotland's exports

    First Minister stresses importance of international links.

  78. Scotch Beef back on the menu

    Canadian restaurant first to sell Scotch Beef since 1996. 

  79. A Trading Nation - a plan to grow Scotland's exports: FSDA

    Fairer Scotland duty assessment (FSDA) - an evidence based assessment of potential direct or indirect socio economic and inequalities of outcome impacts from delivery of A Trading Nation export growth plan.

  80. A Trading Nation - a plan to grow Scotland's exports: EQIA

    An evidence based assessment of potential equalities impacts from delivery of A Trading Nation export growth plan.

  81. Promoting Scotland-US relations

    Trade Minister visits US.

  82. Salmon exports to Japan

    Demand increasing in deal with sushi chain.

  83. Japanese firm sets sights on Scotland

    Plans for Glasgow base.

  84. Mission to strengthen links with Japan

    Trade and culture on the agenda

  85. Red meat exports: potential administrative costs of trade under WTO rules

    This research investigated what the costs will be incurred by Scotland’s red meat export sector when dealing with the EU under World Trade Organisation regulations.

  86. Arctic Connections: Scotland's Arctic policy framework

    A prospectus for cooperation, knowledge-exchange and policy partnerships between Scotland and the Arctic.

  87. Building ties with Germany

    First Minister visits Berlin.

  88. Food and drink exports

    Five year vision outlined.

  89. Scotland's export performance monitor

    Analysis produced to support the development of our new export growth plan 'Scotland: a trading nation'.

  90. No-deal Brexit: economic implications for Scotland

    Illustration of the potential impact that a no-deal Brexit - leaving the EU on the 29th March 2019 without a transition period or agreement on any future trade deal and wider economic relationship - could have on the Scottish economy over the next 12-24 months.

  91. Promoting Scottish business abroad

    Engagement with corporate leaders in North America.

  92. Showcasing food and drink

    First Minister promotes Scotland’s natural larder in Canada.

  93. Strengthening ties with Canada

    Scottish office in Ottawa opens.

  94. International exports continue to rise

    Majority of growth in exports to EU countries.

  95. Scotland’s exports increase

    A National Statistics publication for Scotland.

  96. Brexit and businesses: sectoral impact analysis

    This Brexit readiness assessment summarises the risks to business of a no-deal Brexit and captures the views of over 80 businesses and trade associations.

  97. Trade policy: response to UK Government consultation on future free trade agreements

    The Scottish Government’s initial response to consultations on the UK’s future trade relationships with Australia, New Zealand, and USA.

  98. Brexit deal uncertainty

    EU trade and agreements worth £16.4 billion to Scotland.

  99. Strengthening ties with India

    Deputy First Minister to promote Scotland internationally.

  100. Investing in the Malawian economy

    £418,000 allocated to businesses to drive development.

  101. Minister visit to Southern Africa

    International development and strengthening relationships.

  102. Programme for Government 2018 to 2019

    Sets out our plans for the next year, including the Bills that will be introduced to the Scottish Parliament.

  103. Scotland's role in the development of future UK trade arrangements

    This paper discusses the role of the Scottish Government, Scottish Parliament and others in the development of future UK trade arrangements, to help ensure that Scotland’s economic and other interests can be protected and enhanced.

  104. Growing exports to Germany

    FM heads business delegation to Berlin.

  105. Scotland's International Framework: China engagement strategy

    Scotland's commitment to a strong, long-term, bilateral partnership with China.

  106. Germany hub opens for business

    Latest innovation & investment office launched in Berlin.

  107. Global campaign takes Scotland to the world

    A major new campaign will put Scotland in the international spotlight and showcase the country’s world-leading assets to a global audience.

  108. International exports still on the rise

    Upward trend continues.

  109. Budget sets out economic growth package

    Economic expansion at centre of spending plans.

  110. Scotland’s Budget

    Investing in the NHS, protecting low earners, backing Scotland’s economy.

  111. Scotland and India collaborate on social enterprise

    “World-leading” expertise to support social entrepreneurs in India.

  112. Trade Envoys appointed

    Team will champion Scottish businesses abroad.

  113. Deputy First Minister visits India

    Focus on education, skills and the economy.

  114. Decommissioning fund awards

    £1.1 million to applicants in first round of funding.

  115. Fracking debate

    Scottish Parliament endorses ban.

  116. £10.5m investment in life sciences

    Biospyder and Acadian seek new opportunities in Scotland.

  117. Haggis on the menu in Canada

    Scotland to start exports of haggis for the first time in 46 years.

  118. Economy Secretary visits US and Canada

    Promoting Scotland internationally.

  119. Regional trade statistics

    47% of exports are to EU.

  120. Nordic Baltic policy statement

    Statement aiming to strengthen relationships with countries in the Nordic and Baltic regions by promoting policy exchange and collaboration.

  121. Support for Scottish businesses abroad

    First Minister outlines government backing to increase exports.

  122. Brexit planning process 'unacceptable'

    Minister raises concerns over lack of engagement by UK Government.

  123. £5.3 million for Ayrshire

    Funding for The HALO regeneration project on former Diageo site.

  124. Amendments to UK Brexit Bill will be proposed

    First Ministers of Wales and Scotland agree actions to counter serious risks to devolution.

  125. Brexit risk to farming

    Ewing: No deal not an option.

  126. Asian appetite for Scottish food and drink

    Food and drink exports hit £1 billion.

  127. American firms invest £6.3m in Scotland

    44 jobs created or safeguarded.

  128. Great Repeal Bill

    Holyrood powers “must not be diminished”.

  129. Scotland's International Framework: US engagement strategy

    This document outlines our strategic objectives for engagement with the US.

  130. Scotland's International Framework: Canada engagement strategy

    This document outlines our strategic objectives for engagement with Canada.

  131. First Minister visits USA

    Promoting Scotland overseas.

  132. Life sciences in Scotland

    Industry focused on £8bn target.

  133. Safeguarding German investment

    Cabinet Secretary for the Economy travels to Hamburg and Berlin.

  134. Fair Trade Nation

    Scotland sees sharp rise in people buying into idea.

  135. Clarity on Brexit

    Finance Ministers voice disappointment following quadrilateral meeting.

  136. From Tokyo with love

    Toshima Ward to host Scotland Day and offers venues to Scottish performers.

  137. Scotland prime location for Japanese investment

    Japanese firms enjoy record turnover of £187 million in Scotland.

  138. Scotland's views must feature in Article 50 letter

    Continued lack of clarity from UK Government.

  139. Article 50 Bill

    Scottish Parliament opposes beginning of process to withdraw from EU.

  140. Future of farming

    First Minister updates farmers on approach to Europe.

  141. Scotland in Europe

    Cabinet Secretary asks European Parliament to ensure Scotland’s voice is heard during Article 50 process

  142. Joint Ministerial Committee on Brexit

    UK must be prepared to compromise

  143. European links under threat

    Brexit impedes cultural and tourism opportunities.

  144. Scotland’s Exports Increase

    A National Statistics Publication for Scotland.

  145. International exports rise by £1 billion

    Membership of new Trade Board confirmed

  146. Brexit, food and farming

    Cabinet Secretary highlights threat of leaving the European Single Market on food and farming industries.

  147. Strengthening ties with Japan

    Trade links on agenda.

  148. Trade and investment briefing

    Keith Brown meets Consular Corps.

  149. Single Market membership

    Keith Brown outlines the risks of hard Brexit.

  150. Scotland's International Framework: US engagement strategy (draft)

    This is the draft version of our strategy for engagement with the US. The final version was published in March 2017.

  151. Scotland's International Framework: Canada engagement strategy (draft)

    This is the draft version of our strategy for engagement with Canada. The final version was published in March 2017.

  152. Scotland's Place in Europe

    Paper published on options to keep Scotland in Single Market.

  153. Economic Summit

    Continued strong links with Europe.

  154. Scotland forges stronger links with Kenya

    Bilateral trade deal opens Kenyan potato market.

  155. Scotland to benefit from significant EU funds

    Investment for vital projects to tackle poverty and inequality.

  156. Scotland must remain in EU single market

    Keith Brown calls for parliamentary consensus over single market membership.

  157. Hard Brexit hit for Scottish exports

    Think-tank predicts service exports could be cut by 60% if removed from Single Market.

  158. Global Scotland: trade and investment strategy 2016-2021

    Our eight-point action plan to increase trade and investment in Scotland.

  159. Scotland's International Framework: Pakistan engagement strategy

    Outlines key areas of engagement between Pakistan and Scotland.

  160. Scotland's International Framework: India engagement strategy

    Outlines key areas of engagement between India and Scotland.

  161. Trade and investment strategy: economic evidence discussion paper

    This discussion paper uses economic evidence to analyse Scotland's trade and investment performance in an international context.

  162. Fair Trade Nation criteria: our scores

    Table showing our scores against the criteria required to become a Fair Trade Nation.

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