ALEX Salmond is to demand that Scotch whisky's unique status is protected from unfair competition from bootleg foreign spirits when he embarks on a week-long visit to China today.
Salmond will join with the Scotch Whisky Association which is fighting for Scotland's national drink to become the first overseas product to receive a special type of trade protection in China.
Gavin Hewitt, the SWA's chief executive, will meet th
e Chinese government to discuss the Scotch being given a "geographical indication of origin" – a form of legal protection that will distinguish the genuine Scottish produced article from imitation products made in China.
"We are seeking this recognition from China," said Campbell Evans of the SWA. "Alex Salmond is supporting us in this. China is a very important market for us."
Scotch whisky accounts for 20% of Scotland's manufactured exports to China and in 2007 direct shipments were valued at £42m compared with just £1.5m in 2001.
In the past, the SWA has had to take action against products like Glen Highland Green Blended Whisky – a locally produced spirit from the Fujian Province.
Hundreds of domestic products in China have "geographical indication" status, a legally recognised sign or name that identifies a product with its place of origin.
If Scotch is granted that status it will be the first overseas product to be given that recognition.
The First Minister also aims to promote Scotland as a golfing tourist destination and build on academic links that have resulted in 5,000 Chinese students studying in Scotland and contributing millions of pounds to the domestic economy.
Scottish Government officials have estimated that Scotland's Chinese student population invest at least £50,000 each in Scotland on tuition, goods and services during their four-year degrees – a total contribution of £250m from all 5,000 during their stay.
Salmond will be accompanied by Fiona Hyslop, the Education Secretary, and eight Government officials during the trip, which will see the First Minister make a business speech in Hong Kong before the party moves on to Shanghai and Beijing to meet Chinese ministers. The Government has refused to say how much the trip will cost.
Salmond has met Amnesty International and the Scottish Human Rights Commission ahead of the trip to discuss human rights concerns in China, and how these could best be expressed.
A key part of Salmond's Chinese strategy is to encourage the growing number of golfers in China to come to Scotland to experience playing classic courses at the home of golf.
He also wants to foster business links that will capitalise on Scotland's expertise in life science, green energy and computer games technology.
Salmond said: "Our China plan, developed by the previous administration and updated and expanded last year, is yielding significant benefits to Scotland as we strengthen our long-standing relationships with Government, businesses and educational institutions in China."
