Scotland is strengthening business and trade links with Japan.

The Scottish Government’s priority areas include food, drink, life science and the renewable energy sectors.

Fiona Hyslop Cabinet Secretary for External Affairs, set out the priorities at the British Chamber of Commerce in Tokyo.

Scotland’s direct exports to Japan is currently worth around £295 million.

Ms Hyslop said: “There are opportunities for Scottish businesses to expand their links with Japan particularly in the areas of food and drink but also in life sciences and renewable energy. We have many existing relationships and cultural links with Japan but we know these three sectors present key opportunities to further strengthen our connections and we are committed to doing all we can to encourage that.”

With a combined turnover of £1.4 million, 80 Japanese businesses are investing in Scotland employing more than 5,000 people.

Between 2012 and 2014, Scottish businesses secured six new projects with Japan creating more than 150 new jobs and safeguarding 227 more.