Analysis from Eurostat has found exports from the UK to the European Union (EU) decreased by a staggering €16 billion (-17.1%) in the first seven months this year, compared to the first half of 2020.
In contrast, every other major trading partner increased its exports to the EU, including Russia (+41.2%), Norway (+36.5%) and India (+33%) It follows analysis from the House of Commons Library, using IMF data, which revealed the UK is the only country in north west Europe to have suffered a fall in exports since the 2016 Brexit vote.
While Ireland saw a +48.1% increase in the volume of exports of goods and services between 2016 and 2021, the UK saw its exports fall by -5.5% over the same period.
Kenneth Gibson MSP said:
“These figures are a painful confirmation of the fact that Scotland is missing out.
“When I served on the Culture, Tourism and External Affairs Committee earlier this year, it was shockingly evident how Scotland’s forced EU exit because of Brexit was making it more difficult for our producers to export their goods and services to the EU.
“Scottish businesses are losing millions a week, and Brexit is projected to cost the Scottish economy £9 billion by 2030 compared to EU membership - the equivalent of £1,600 for every person who lives here - and at the next independence referendum that won’t be forgotten.”
ENDS
