With import tariffs on Scotch whisky set to be slashed, the deal could open up a potential £1 billion annual growth opportunity in India, already one of the world’s largest whisky markets.
The government predicts the trade agreement will grow the Scottish economy by £190 million per year.
Trade mission to India: Making the deal count
To capitalise on these opportunities, the Prime Minister is leading a trade mission to India this week. Alongside industry representatives, the delegation will hold meetings with senior Indian ministers and companies to promote Scottish exports and deepen economic ties.
Douglas Alexander, Secretary of State for Scotland, commented:
“This historic trade deal … is great news for Scotland and, especially, our whisky industry. … Our challenge now is to put this deal into action.”
From his earlier role as Trade Policy Minister, Alexander helped shape this UK–India agreement, which follows hard on the heels of recent deals with the US and EU.
The UK delegation also includes Business and Trade Secretary Peter Kyle and Investment Minister Lord Jason Stockwood.
