Asian whisky exports hit £63m mark

DIRECT exports of whisky to China and Hong Kong have reached a total value of £63.6 million in nine months, new figures show.

The figure comes a year after China granted legal protection to ensure any product labelled Scotch whisky must come from Scotland.

Salmon producers have exported almost £20m of fish to China since direct exports began in January.

First Minister Alex Salmond said: “Growing and exporting firms make a significant contribution to Scotland’s economy. That is why the Scottish Government is committed to investing in a supportive business environment, focusing our efforts on growth markets.”

Mr Salmond has now launched a new food and drink export strategy for Asia, which aims to help the food and drink industry exploit opportunities for growth in Asia over the next six years.