New Scottish food & drink strategy to be launched for Asia

Strengthening governmental, cultural and business links with the world's leading economies are a key part of Scotland's economic recovery, Mr Salmond said as details of his forthcoming visit to the People's Republic of China were announced.

Mr Salmond and Anne MacColl, chief executive of Scottish Development International, will travel next weekend for a series of high-level government, cultural, business and trade engagements in several mainland cities and Hong Kong.

Mr Salmond said: "China is the world's fastest-growing major economy and it is vital that government, business and other organisations enhance our already strong ties with this great nation.

"We must continue to promote Scotland as an attractive proposition for investment, trade, research, tourism and cultural associations - and that will be our focus.

"Ongoing Scottish Government and industry engagement with China has, in recent years, helped secure 'geographical status' for Scotch whisky and an immediate rise in exports from £44 million to £55 million last year.

"It has also helped us achieve approval of direct Scottish salmon imports into China. In just six months after the first exports were agreed, China has become the largest export destination for Scottish salmon in the Far East, delivering an initial £12 million boost to the industry here, with much more to follow.

"While there has been much to celebrate in recent years, we remain conscious of the need to nurture and strengthen our ties with China.”