The call came at the Scottish Chambers of Commerce annual dinner where First Minister John Swinney, Labour leader Anas Sarwar MSP and Scottish Conservatives leader Russell Findlay MSP were told businesses needed government to act urgently.

Dr Liz Cameron CBE, SCC chief executive, said: “We stand at a pivotal moment for our economy. The economic headwinds and political turmoil are immensely challenging. and some sectors are at breaking point.

“The message tonight is clear: collaboration and understanding between business and government are not just desirable—they are essential.”

Stephen Leckie, SCC president, said: “Government policies are critical to creating the conditions for growth. Increasing energy costs, higher tax burdens and new government regulations is a lot for any business to manage and absorb.

“We need a renewed focus on tax reform to incentivise innovation, a planning system that enables swift development, and support for key sectors like renewable energy, tourism, and manufacturing. Businesses need certainty, clarity, and collaboration.”

The First Minister said: “A strong, successful, innovative and dynamic economy is vital to my government’s aspirations.

“In preparation for the Budget, I have carefully listened to the business community across Scotland and heard their concerns, in particular around the UK government’s decision to increase employers national insurance contributions.

“Our focus on prioritising investment, removing obstacles to growth, and providing certainty and stability to business will help us build a more resilient Scottish economy and unlock our nation’s full economic potential.”

Dr Cameron added: “In a highly competitive world we need a lower cost base, less bureaucracy and more government support from both Holyrood and Westminster.

“Business needs targeted measures to ease the burden on businesses struggling with rising costs – including reform of the business rates system, targeted rates relief, and a serious rethink to the rise in employer national insurance contributions.

“We don’t need one-off changes or quick fixes. We need a long-term plan that extends beyond election cycles to encourage investment and foster confidence. Governments must place consistent, coherent, and business-friendly policies at the heart of their agendas.”

Mr Leckie committed SCC’s continued support for Scotland’s overseas trade, saying: “As we look ahead to the global environment now, we will double down on our efforts to ensure our prized exports including whisky are marketed globally and that tariffs do not threaten our most valued companies.”