Scotland has been named the third best large European ‘region’ for foreign direct investment (FDI) and the ninth top European region of the future, according to the fDi’s European Cities and Regions of the Future 2018/19 report. This signals huge confidence in Scotland’s investment potential but highlights that Brexit remains a clear threat. Glasgow was also ranked seventh in the top 10 list of large European cities of the future and placed fourth in terms of business friendliness and second only to Birmingham for promoting foreign direct investment. Commenting, Kenneth Gibson MSP said: “This award is a real boost for Scotland and Glasgow, showing the success we have had in promoting foreign direct investment and business friendliness and signalling huge confidence in Scotland as an investment destination.
“The FDI report also highlights the underlying strengths of the Scottish economy, ranking it fifth out of all European ‘regions’ for economic potential.
“We enjoy resources few nations can match, including one of the most highly-educated workforces in Europe, a long-standing reputation for innovation and an internationally-regarded brand. “However, the report also underlines the clear threat posed by a Brexit, that will mean a loss of around £12,700 million a year to the Scottish economy; the equivalent of £2,300 per year for every person in Scotland. “We know that Scotland benefits from being a member of the European Union and it’s time the Tories stopped risking Scotland’s potential and put jobs and living standards first by committing to remaining in the Single Market and Customs Union.” Scotland named one of Europe’s ‘regions of the future’.
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