On the 31^st of March, the Scottish Chambers of Commerce (SCC) led a trade mission to New York – building on the momentum of last year’s visit under the Scottish Government’s A Trading Nation strategy. With the USA being Scotland’s biggest trading and investment partner, this mission focused on fostering lasting partnerships and securing new pathways for Scottish businesses to scale internationally.

Led in partnership with Glasgow and Moray Chambers of Commerce, the delegation visit coincided with Tartan Week – a globally recognised celebration of Scottish heritage. The focus however, extended far beyond culture, spotlighting the power of international trade, with particular emphasis on boosting exports and promoting Scottish SMEs on the world stage.

Leveraging the global reach of the Chambers of Commerce network, our delegates engaged in high-level conversations with industry leaders, investors and government officials, ensuring Scottish businesses are well-positioned to attract investment and expand their global footprint.

Key meetings included engagements with the US Chamber of Commerce, Greater New York Chamber of Commerce, US Council for International Business and BritishAmerican Business. These strategic discussions offered invaluable insights into U.S. market dynamics and reinforced opportunities for deeper chamber-to-chamber collaboration.

Dr. Liz Cameron CBE, Chief Executive of the Scottish Chambers of Commerce, emphasised the mission’s strategic importance:​

“Scotland’s participation in Tartan Week is more than a cultural celebration; it’s a strategic endeavour to position Scottish businesses at the forefront of the global stage. This trade mission exemplifies our proactive approach to identifying new market opportunities, drive innovation, attract investment and foster international partnerships that will propel Scotland’s economy forward.”

First Minister of Scotland, John Swinney, also expressed support for the Trade Mission:​

“Scotland is one of the best places in the world to invest and we already enjoy strong economic links with the US, our largest inward investor and second largest export market.

“Tartan Week provides an opportunity to showcase business opportunities in both countries.  I welcome the Scottish Chambers Network’s proactive approach to identifying new exporting opportunities for Scottish companies and I look forward to supporting that mission.”

The SCC has invested in building this important economic partnership with our market presence and participation in the world-renowned Tartan Week and surrounding activities providing a platform to showcase Scotland’s investment opportunities.

Deepening Economic Ties

The SCC met with the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce who represent 125,000+ businesses across Manhattan’s bustling economy. Collectively, these businesses employ more than 3.4 million people and generate $939 billion in annual GDP. SCC were warmly welcomed by the Manhattan Chamber, where key discussions focused on potential collaborations and attracting investment opportunities between Scotland and the USA.

A significant highlight of the trade mission to New York was the signing of a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between SCC and the Greater New York Chamber of Commerce. This agreement came at a timely boost for Scotland-USA business relations, and is a significant reminder of the importance of economic partnerships for both nations. It reinforced the shared commitment to strengthening transatlantic trade at a critical time, particularly amid ongoing concerns about US tariffs.

The key objectives of the MOU are to:

• Enhance bilateral trade and investment between Scotland and the United States.
• Support business growth by facilitating market entry and expansion opportunities for companies in both regions.
• Strengthen economic cooperation through joint initiatives, events, and strategic partnerships.

Charandeep Singh BEM, Deputy Chief Executive of the Scottish Chambers of Commerce, highlighted the significance of the agreement:

“Scotland and the United States share a deep-rooted economic and cultural relationship, and this MOU is a powerful statement of our commitment to strengthening business links. By partnering with the Greater New York Chamber of Commerce, we are creating a bridge for Scottish businesses to access one of the world’s most dynamic markets while welcoming American businesses to explore opportunities in Scotland.

“This agreement is a clear demonstration of the growing strength of the Scotland-USA economic partnership, reinforcing Scotland’s position as a key player in international trade and investment. It sends a positive signal to the international community that Scotland is open for business and expanding its horizons. The US market remains a top priority for our businesses and we support the UK and Scottish governments continued dialogue and negotiations to strengthen the partnership and find solutions to ease the impact of the proposed new tariffs.”

Mark Jaffe, President & CEO of the Greater New York Chamber of Commerce, emphasised the benefits of stronger chamber-to-chamber cooperation:

“New York and Scotland are natural business partners, sharing a spirit of entrepreneurship, innovation, and global ambition. This agreement will open doors for businesses on both sides of the Atlantic, helping them navigate new markets and build lasting connections. We look forward to working closely with the Scottish Chambers of Commerce to support businesses in seizing new opportunities and expanding their international reach.”

First Minister John Swinney said:

“The signing of this MoU is a significant achievement that will bring Scottish and US businesses closer together and boost transatlantic trade between our two nations.

“Both the Scottish Chambers of Commerce and the Chambers network are helping to increase business collaboration and extending our international reach in support of our ambitions to secure long term economic growth for Scotland.

“Historically, Scotland and the USA have enjoyed significant cultural, historical and financial links. My government is committed to building upon this and will continue to work with our partners to do so.”

Telling Scotland’s Story

Following the signing of the MoU, SCC were invited to meet with senior leaders at NBC at the iconic Rockefeller Centre. NBC is a powerhouse of content creation and entertainment, so it was great to hear them talk positively about Scotland’s potential in film and TV production. Whether it’s our stunning landscapes, highly talented people or a strong growth agenda, Scotland is a great place to do business. The meeting was supported by Secretary of State for Scotland Ian Murray and Anas Sarwar MSP, both of whom shared ambitions to further position Scotland as a prime destination for creative industries.

Later that day, the excitement continued as the Scottish Chambers of Commerce alongside Glasgow Chamber of Commerce hosted a standout out Scottish Business Reception in New York. The premier event welcomed 65 distinguished guests including First Minister of Scotland, John Swinney and the Secretary of State for Scotland, Ian Murray MP who addressed the audience. It was a proud moment to showcase the immense potential of Scotland to the world.

Charandeep Singh, Deputy Chief Executive of the Scottish Chambers of Commerce:

 “Scotland’s business community is built on a strong foundation of innovation, ambition, and global trade. As we convene in New York, we reaffirm our commitment to strengthening our economic ties with the United States and our ambition to be a leading force in the global marketplace.

“We are laying the groundwork to further enhance our enduring economic partnership with the USA by fostering new business partnerships and showcasing Scotland as a world-leading destination for trade and investment.

“By uniting leaders from both the Scottish and UK governments, alongside industry, we are reinforcing the importance of business and government collaboration to drive economic growth.”

 First Minister John Swinney said:

“I am delighted to be supporting the Scottish Chambers of Commerce business delegation at this year’s New York Tartan Week. The SCC and the Chambers network play a hugely valuable role in running trade missions and events that bring businesses together.

“The USA is our single largest trading partner and foreign investor in Scotland. We enjoy a broad, and balanced trading relationship that we will continue to develop in the years ahead.

“Through the Scottish Government’s International Trade Programme, the SCC has delivered over 100 trade missions generating over £45 million in forecast export sales. This is an excellent example of government and the business community working together.”

Ian Murray MP, Secretary of State for Scotland, highlighted the collaborative efforts:

“When businesses and governments work together we can make a real impact in selling Scotland to the world. Through Brand Scotland, we’re creating opportunities for businesses to expand globally and showcasing the opportunities to invest. By bringing together so many business leaders at their event, the Scottish Chambers of Commerce demonstrates the appetite to build links with our country.”

Scottish Pride on Parade

On Saturday April 5^th 2025, the delegation took part in the famous Tartan Day Parade shutting down Sixth Avenue in New York. This year’s Tartan Day Parade saw a record breaking 3,500 participants from over 50 groups of which included the Scottish Chambers of Commerce Network. It was a powerful celebration of Scottish heritage, culture and entrepreneurship on the global stage. It was a privilege to showcase the strength and ambition of Scottish business as part of this iconic parade – all marching proudly down one of the world’s most iconic avenues.

The Journey Continues

Following a high-impact week in New York, the SCC delegation visited the capital, Washington DC, to meet the White House Historical Association and their President Stewart D. McLaurin.

Did you know in 1794, Scottish stonemasons undertook the long journey from Edinburgh to Washington DC to help build The White House, one of the world’s most iconic and symbolic buildings. Therefore, we were delighted to present Mr McLaurin with a uniquely designed and handmade bowl from Highland Stoneware, an outstanding Scottish craft & quality company based in the North West of the Scottish Highlands.

Rounding off our time in the USA, SCC held a key meeting with Zach Helzer, Senior Director & Head of the US-UK Business Council, at the US Chamber in Washington DC.

The Chamber of Commerce of the United States is the world’s largest business organisation advocating for policies that help businesses create jobs and grow the US economy. Established over a century ago, their core belief in the ability of American businesses to improve lives, solve problems and strengthen society remains steadfast. During our meeting, discussions focused on shared policy priorities – including trade, tariffs, and investment – all of which are critical levers for economic growth on both sides of the Atlantic.

Looking Ahead

As we reflect on our time in the United States, it’s clear that the energy, partnerships, and opportunities generated during this mission have laid strong foundations for the future. The Scottish Chambers of Commerce remains focused on helping businesses realise their international ambitions and strengthening Scotland’s position on the global economic stage.

Join us on our next trade mission: www.exporthubscotland.com​