Scotland’s food and drink exports increased by more than 11% to £1.2 billion in the first quarter of this year, compared with the same period in 2016.

Scotch whisky exports increased almost 10% to £875.8 million.

Scotch whisky and Scottish salmon were the top two UK export products by value in the first quarter of 2017, making up 22% of the value of total food and drink exports from the UK.

The EU remains Scotland’s largest regional export market outside of the UK, with exports to the EU growing by £50 million.

Total food exports rose 14% to £371 million, with fish and seafood, the largest food sector, growing by £48 million.

North America was the second largest export destination for Scottish food and drink, with the Asia and Oceania region third.

Rural Economy Secretary Fergus Ewing said: “2016 was a record year for Scotland’s food and drink exports and these new figures clearly show that the sector is going from strength to strength …

“What is clear from these figures is that maintaining access to the EU single market is crucial for our food and drink producers and our wider economy.

“Losing access will put Scottish industry at a significant disadvantage, exposing business to damaging export tariff barriers and regulatory requirements.

“Scotch Whisky and Scottish Salmon were the top two UK export products by value in the first quarter of 2017, making up 22% of the value of total food and drink exports from the UK.

“The Prime Minister must include the Scottish Government at the Brexit negotiating table, with the starting point for any new approach the continued membership of the Single Market and Customs Union.”

James Withers, Scotland Food & Drink chief executive, said: “This is another incredibly strong set of export results for both Scottish food and drink, building on our momentum.

“Europe remains our biggest market as the destination for 70% of food exports.

“Ongoing, smooth access to that market will be critical for our sector’s future.

“However, we are strongly committed to extending our global footprint well beyond Europe, something that the Scotch Whisky industry had led the way on.

“So it’s very encouraging to see such strong growth in Asia and North America, with rises of 50% to 70% in the value of food sales in those markets so far this year.

“These results are the fruits of having a clear export plan and a unique partnership between the industry and government.

“We believe we can double the turnover of food and drink sector in Scotland to £30 billion by 2030.  International sales are becoming an increasing part of that story.”