2014 could be ‘tipping point’ for Scottish exports

SCOTTISH firms have been urged to take advantage of global attention on Scotland next year by improving the country’s weak export record.
IoD Scotland chief David Watt says focus will be on the country. Picture: Robert PerryIoD Scotland chief David Watt says focus will be on the country. Picture: Robert Perry
IoD Scotland chief David Watt says focus will be on the country. Picture: Robert Perry

“The floodlights will be trained on Scotland next year and we must be ready to step into the spotlight,” says David Watt, head of the Institute of Directors Scotland, adding that 2014 could be a “tipping point” for getting Scotland where it should be international trade.

“Having recently returned from the US, I have seen the high profile Scotland is enjoying right now; something our exporters, both current and potential, should exploit. Scotland desperately needs more companies to export – only 8 per cent do so at present – and we can use 2014 to kick-start a massive increase.”