Scotland’s whisky, golf and oil credentials are being trumpeted during a visit to China by First Minister Alex Salmond.
Mr Salmond had the Ryder Cup to help him promote Scottish trade links and new business opportunities yesterday.
Gleneagles will host the Ryder Cup golf tournament in 2014 and the trophy took centre-stage during Mr Salmond’s visit to Johnnie Walker House in Beijing.
Hailing the key role played by leading whisky brands – such as Johnnie Walker – and golf in growing Scottish exports, Mr Salmond said: “Scotland’s national drink is renowned across the world and Scotland is the undisputed home of golf.
“The love for Scotch whisky in China continues to grow.
“In 2012, (whisky) exports to China were valued at £71.5million – representing a 70% increase since 2007 – and the presence of such a fantastic, iconic venue as Johnnie Walker House in Beijing is a true testament to that popularity.
“The Ryder Cup at Gleneagles next year is one of Scotland’s many opportunities to shine on a global stage.”
The first minister is also using his visit to introduce Scottish firms to senior bosses from Chinese energy giants CNOOC and Sinopec.
Mr Salmond said: “As the world’s most populous country and one of its fastest-growing economies, China is exploring new domestic energy supplies and investing heavily in the industry through mergers and acquisitions overseas.
“Scotland’s enviable reputation as the European capital of oil and gas, and our ongoing pioneering work in exploration and extraction, gives us a strong appeal to Chinese firms looking for both domestic and international future energy supplies.”
He added: “In the past few years we’ve seen increased investment from China into the industry in Scotland, with CNOOC’s acquisition of Nexen and Sinopec’s interest in Talisman’s North Sea business.
“I’m introducing some of our most innovative companies to the senior leadership of these energy giants, to help them do more business in this market.”
Deals announced during the visit include a new £150,000 contract for Dundee firm Safehouse Habitats, involving work for CNOOC.
Julian Taylor, Asia Pacific director at trade body Scottish Development International, said: “China already owns 20% of the world’s oil and gas operations and continues to look for opportunities in Africa and South America.
“Given Scotland’s growing experience of success in these markets, there are clear opportunities to benefit from this investment-ready environment by partnering with China’s oil companies.”