Scottish food and drink exports to Europe grew by £119 million in the first half of 2017 compared to the same period last year. The 9% increase in the value of total exports to £2.5 billion was fuelled by exports to the EU over the past six months.

Statistics also showed:

• Food exports increased by 24% to £770 million
• Scottish whisky exports grew £57 million (up 3%) to £1.8 billion
• Fish and seafood exports are up 38% to £459 million
• The EU accounted for 69% of all food exports.

Rural Economy Secretary Fergus Ewing says, "While these figures clearly show our food and drink industry to be in rude health, they also highlight the importance of continued access to vital European markets. The EU accounted for 69% of our total food and 31% of our drinks exports – a significant, and potentially at risk, amount.

"I am committed to doing everything I can to help support our food and drinks industry to export more, and to more markets, as outlined in the industry-led Ambition 2030 strategy that aims to double the sectors turnover by 2030. Our larder is world renowned for its quality and diversity and these figures clearly demonstrate how our industry is continuing to go from strength to strength."

James Withers, Scotland Food & Drink chief executive, adds, "This is another boost to Scotlands food export performance with international trade rising by a quarter from the same time last year. With nearly 70% of food exports destined for Europe, these figures are a further reminder that a comprehensive trade deal between the UK and EU is essential for our industry and the Scottish economy. With Scottish food and drink making huge strides across North America and the Far East with Scottish trade staff opening doors overseas, this export success story has much farther still to go."