Based in Edinburgh’s Queen Elizabeth House, a UK Government HQ opened last month which will house 3,000 civil servants from multiple departments, the UK DIT’s new Scotland Hub will provide businesses with greatly increased trade support.

Through the Trade Hub, businesses will be able to utilise the UK government’s global networks, expertise and influence, as well as credit agency, UKEF, to grow their overseas trade and build back from the impact of coronavirus. 

Yesterday, UK Government exports minister, Graham Stuart MP, met with Scottish businesses and representative organisations, including FSB Scotland, NFU Scotland, the Scottish Council for Development and Industry and others, to discuss the support available for companies in the region.

Graham Stuart MP said: “This specialist Hub for Scotland will provide businesses with the support and guidance needed to boost their profits and harness their full potential.

“Trade is crucial to the UK’s recovery from coronavirus and will be the foundation of our relationships across the globe after the transition period ends this year. I want to ensure that businesses in Scotland benefit from our new trade deals with the world’s biggest markets, as we remove barriers that they previously faced.”

David Duguid, UK Government Minister for Scotland, added: “This new UK Government Trade Hub in Edinburgh is fantastic news for Scottish businesses. It will help them make the very most of the global trade opportunities once the EU transition period ends.

“I urge Scottish businesses to work with the Trade Hub to expand their export business, especially Scotland’s famous food and drink sector. This is a real boost for Scottish produce. Recovering our economy from coronavirus is a national effort. We are working as one United Kingdom to support businesses in Scotland.

“The Trade Hub will be based in Queen Elizabeth House, the UK government’s new flagship building in Edinburgh. It is a clear demonstration of our commitment to strengthening the Union and delivering for people in Scotland.”