Scottish Trade Guide

Scottish Trade represents the dynamic and diverse spirit of Scotland, showcasing the very best of its goods and services to global markets. Rooted in tradition yet forward-thinking in vision, Scottish Trade bridges heritage with innovation, exporting world-renowned products and expertise to every corner of the world.

From the iconic Scotch whisky — crafted through centuries of mastery — to the finest wool and textiles woven in the Highlands and Borders, Scotland’s exports are symbols of quality, authenticity, and craftsmanship. These traditional industries continue to thrive, reaching discerning consumers and retailers from Tokyo to Toronto.

Beyond tradition, Scotland’s modern industries lead the way in engineering excellence, renewable energy, digital innovation, and even the rapidly growing space sector. Scottish Trade supports this cutting-edge growth, promoting advanced manufacturing, satellite technology, and green solutions on a global scale.

With a strong international presence and a commitment to excellence, Scottish Trade is proud to champion the nation's best — a vibrant blend of heritage, innovation, and ingenuity — to partners and markets worldwide.

Scottish Trade’s food and drink sector stands as one of the nation’s most powerful economic drivers, with a global reputation for quality, authenticity, and flavour. In 2022, the sector reached record export levels, highlighting its growing appeal on the world stage and reaffirming Scotland’s position as a premium producer in international markets.

At the heart of this success is Scotch whisky — a global ambassador for Scottish heritage and craftsmanship. Distilled across the country in historic and modern facilities alike, whisky continues to be one of the UK’s top single food and drink exports, commanding prestige and demand in markets from the USA and Europe to Asia and Latin America.

Beyond whisky, Scotland’s rich natural larder provides a wealth of other sought-after exports. From sustainably sourced salmon and shellfish to artisan cheeses, oat-based products, craft gins, and premium soft drinks, Scottish food and drink reflects the purity of its landscapes and the passion of its producers. These goods are increasingly featured on menus, shelves, and in culinary culture around the globe, driving both economic value and national pride.

Oil and gas remains a cornerstone of Scottish Trade, representing a major export sector and a vital part of the nation's economic strength. Often referred to as "Europe's oil capital," Scotland — particularly Aberdeen — plays a central role in the exploration, production, and global distribution of energy resources.

With decades of expertise in offshore engineering, project management, and energy infrastructure, Scotland has built a world-class reputation in the oil and gas industry. Its highly skilled workforce, advanced technologies, and strong supply chain networks contribute to the global energy market, delivering services and products to regions across the Middle East, Africa, the Americas, and beyond.

As global energy needs evolve, Scottish oil and gas companies are also leading efforts to transition toward cleaner energy solutions. Through innovation and collaboration, the sector is investing in carbon capture, hydrogen technologies, and offshore wind integration — ensuring that Scotland continues to play a key role in the energy landscape of the future.

Scottish Trade thrives across a broad range of sectors beyond its flagship industries, with machinery and transport equipment forming a vital part of the country’s export economy. From precision engineering to advanced manufacturing, Scotland supplies high-quality components and systems used in global transport, aerospace, and industrial applications — underpinned by innovation, reliability, and technical expertise.

Beverages and tobacco also contribute significantly to the export portfolio, with Scotland’s renowned distilleries and craft producers driving demand in international markets. Alongside whisky, a growing range of Scottish gins, craft beers, and premium non-alcoholic beverages are winning acclaim and shelf space across the world. Tobacco-related exports, although more niche, also maintain a presence in select global markets.

Mineral fuels continue to play a key role in Scotland’s export mix, complementing the oil and gas sector and contributing to the energy security of international partners. Together, these diverse industries reflect the depth and versatility of Scottish Trade, powering connections to global markets through quality, innovation, and tradition.

Oil and gas have long been at the heart of Scottish Trade, forming one of the nation's most significant and influential export sectors. With a proud legacy built over decades, Scotland has developed a world-leading industry that not only fuels international markets but also drives innovation and expertise in energy technology and services.

As Europe’s oil capital, Scotland is home to a highly developed ecosystem of around 2,000 supply chain companies. These businesses specialise in a vast range of capabilities — from offshore drilling and safety systems to enhanced oil recovery, digital monitoring, and large-scale decommissioning. This depth and diversity have made Scottish oil and gas services highly sought-after across the globe, supporting major projects in the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and the Americas.

The industry’s strength lies not only in its resources but in its people, skills, and solutions — positioning Scotland as a key global hub for energy expertise as the world transitions toward more sustainable forms of energy.