Ahead of an upcoming delegation to China, discussions around “closer strategic collaboration in the whisky sector” with China took place between the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA) during a visit to the Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Edinburgh.

Chinese Consul General Zhang Biao welcomed SWA chief executive Mark Kent for constructive discussions highlighting the growing economic importance of the Chinese market to Scotland’s flagship export on 23 October.

Kent said that the association attaches great importance to the Chinese market and continues to increase its investment in China. The association plans to soon lead a delegation to China and looked forward to strengthening ties with Chinese partners. The delegation would also participate in major events, including the China International Import Expo. The SWA stands ready to actively promote exchanges and cooperation between Scotland and China.

Zhang commended Kent and the SWA for their active efforts in promoting friendly exchanges and trade cooperation between China and Scotland. He expressed his readiness to provide continuous support and to foster a positive environment for the development of China–Scotland relations, together with the association.

A Scotch Whisky Association spokesperson told Scotland China Brief: “China is an important partner and export market for Scotch Whisky, with exports valued at £161 million in 2025.

“Building on the positive development of tariffs on whisky imports being halved to 5% earlier this year, our recent meeting with His Excellency Consul General Zhang Biao and colleagues at the Chinese Consulate in Edinburgh was a valuable opportunity to discuss matters of mutual interest, including closer strategic collaboration in the whisky sector between China and Scotland.”