Date :
22/05/2013
Scottish business tourism has the potential to become a £1 billion industry, according to tourism minister Fergus Ewing.
At a Scottish Parliament debate on business tourism last month, he emphasised the Scottish government’s commitment to this 'hugely important' market.
"Business tourism showcases our assets to the world, boosts our exports, enhances our reputation and helps to attract business investment," Mr Ewing said.
He also pointed out that 40 per cent of business visitors return:
"If we can attract 10 people to Scotland as business tourists, it’s likely that four of them will come back, and perhaps bring their families."
Mr Ewing said the Conference Bid Fund set up earlier this year had already helped to secure 18 conferences with an estimated value to Scotland of £56m – marking a return of £53 for every £1 of public money spent.
He stressed that it was not just the cities and major venues that stood to benefit:
"The whole of Scotland has a wealth of distinctive venues and top-class accommodation."
The full debate is available from the BBC