Scotland and Vietnam are set to deepen their economic and diplomatic connections as Scottish Secretary Alister Jack leads a high-profile mission to Vietnam. This visit, which includes representatives from the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA), aims to bolster trade and diplomatic ties between the two nations. It is particularly significant as 2023 marks the 50th anniversary of the formal establishment of diplomatic relations between the United Kingdom and Vietnam.
The Mission’s Objectives
Mr. Jack’s packed itinerary for the trip includes several key activities in both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City:
- Engaging with Vietnamese Political Figures: The Scottish Secretary is scheduled to meet with prominent political figures from the Vietnamese government, reaffirming the UK’s commitment to strengthening cooperation across various fields, especially in light of the 50th-anniversary celebration of diplomatic relations.
- Promoting Scottish Exports: In collaboration with the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA), Mr. Jack will host a whisky reception in Hanoi for key business representatives and a reception in Ho Chi Minh City to promote Scottish produce. This initiative aims to boost Scottish exports in the Vietnamese market.
- Visiting Coats Textile Manufacturer: Mr. Jack’s visit will include a trip to Coats, a textile manufacturer, to learn about their operations in Vietnam. Coats, with its origins in Paisley, Scotland, is the world’s leading industrial thread manufacturer and has successfully expanded into the Vietnamese market.
- Supporting Educational Ties: The visit will also involve a meeting with students at the British University Vietnam (BUV) and witnessing the signing of a new partnership between BUV and Stirling University, strengthening educational and academic links between the two countries.
The Significance of the UK-Vietnam Trade Relations
The United Kingdom’s post-Brexit free trade agreement with Vietnam presents substantial opportunities for Scottish businesses. The reduction of import tariffs agreed as part of the UK-Vietnam trade deal, is a significant factor in driving exports. Notably, almost 200 Scottish companies currently export goods to Vietnam, totaling £83 million annually. Beverages, fish, and scientific instruments are among the top exports.
Scotch Whisky, in particular, has found a welcoming market in Vietnam. It ranks as the 24th largest export market by value, with direct exports worth £73.9 million in 2022, equivalent to 7.1 million bottles. Single malts account for 31% of these exports, and approximately 85% of all whisky consumed in Vietnam is Scotch.
Graeme Littlejohn, Director of Strategy and Communication at the Scotch Whisky Association, highlights the importance of Vietnam as an emerging market for Scotch Whisky, noting its growth potential, reduced tariffs, and the significance of premium tourism to the Vietnamese economy.
Looking Ahead
As Alister Jack embarks on this four-day visit to Vietnam, he is supported by the British Embassy in Hanoi and the British Consulate in Ho Chi Minh City, underlining the commitment of the UK to strengthen diplomatic and trade relations with Vietnam. The mission not only showcases the value of Scottish products but also underscores the collaborative efforts to foster deeper connections between Scotland and Vietnam, as both nations look forward to a future of increased cooperation and partnership.
Source: Gov[Dot]UK
