Scotland's Economy

  • Open letter to members of the construction and manufacturing sectors

    28th July 2021 by

    As you will be aware construction materials from plasterboard to timber, steel to insulation, are in short supply because of a combination of global factors in addition to EU Exit and COVID 19. This is having a significant impact as some businesses are unable to source the construction materials they need at a stable price….

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  • Supporting the manufacturing sector

    7th July 2021 by

    The construction industry touches every part of Scotland’s economy and, with its 143,000 jobs and turnover of around £19 billion per annum, is vital to our future prosperity. As a result of a global manufacturing slowdown some businesses are being affected and unable to source the construction materials they need. That is why we have…

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  • Response to latest trade statistics

    7th July 2021 by

    The latest HMRC Regional Trade Statistics further demonstrate the combined impact of COVID-19 and Brexit on Scotland’s trade. However, I am pleased to see that while exports from Scotland’s onshore economy are down 5% over the past year, this compares favourably with a reduction across the rest of the UK of 14%, demonstrating the work done…

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  • Encouraging workers to get their vaccines

    2nd July 2021 by

    We know vaccination is key to moving forward from the pandemic and I am pleased to be working with Scotland’s business organisations to encourage businesses up and down the country to support their staff to attend their vaccine appointments. See our joint statement: “The COVID-19 vaccine is a vital step in Scotland’s progress towards a…

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  • Scottish Business Pledge – Good for Business. Good for Scotland.

    10th October 2019 by

    The refreshed Scottish Business Pledge has been launched today following a review in 2018. Making a commitment to the Business Pledge promotes fairness, equality, opportunity and innovation in Scotland, which in turn creates greater economic success and sustainable, inclusive growth. The reinvigorated Business Pledge has been restructured to better support businesses seeking to make a…

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  • Investing in Scotland’s future skills – Business Minister Jamie Hepburn

    10th September 2019 by

    Today I was delighted to visit Whitespace in Edinburgh and learn about their innovative approach within the creative industry sector and their commitment to upskilling and training their workforce. Their investment in their employees is evident in the quality of their work and the culture of their business. This type of business is central to…

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  • Economy Secretary addresses Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce

    5th March 2019 by

    Last week, Economy Secretary Derek Mackay addressed the 2019 Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce Business Awards. Read his full speech below.

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  • This week: 22/02/19

    22nd February 2019 by

    Economic Impact of ‘No Deal’ Brexit A ‘No Deal’ Brexit could have a dramatic impact on Scotland’s economy, with the potential for national Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to fall by up to 7%, according to a new report by the Scottish Government’s Chief Economist. The paper, ‘No Deal’ Brexit – Economic Implications for Scotland, sets…

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  • In the news: climate change and business

    24th December 2018 by

    Findings released by World Wildlife Foundation Scotland today suggests that small to medium-sized businesses feel less prepared for the risks of climate change compared to larger businesses. The survey of 300 businesses shows that only 2 in 5 of Scotland’s smaller firms feel prepared for risks posed by climate change, while over three-quarters of larger…

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  • This week: 21/12/2018

    21st December 2018 by

    £2m to assist Glasgow’s fire recovery Around £1.85 million of the Scottish Government’s Fire Recovery Fund is to be used by Glasgow City Council to provide business rates relief and support business recovery. Every business in the immediate fire cordon area and eligible businesses in the wider Sauchiehall Street area will receive 100% business rates…

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