SCOTLAND recorded an increase in GDP at the start of 2025 while the UK as a whole saw the economy contract, according to new figures.
Figures for January show that Scotland’s onshore GDP – gross domestic product, the estimated total value of all goods and services the country produces – rose by 0.3%.
For the UK as a whole, the economy shrank in January 2025, with GDP contracting by 0.1%.
In Scotland in January, output in the services sector is estimated to have grown by 0.5%, while production sector output contracted by 1.0% and construction sector output contracted by 0.2%.
Responding to the new figures, Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes said: “In the three months to January, GDP is now estimated to have grown by 0.5% compared to the previous three month period. This is a strong start to the year for the Scottish economy, particularly in the context of global economic uncertainty.
“Many of the levers needed to deal with our economy lie with the UK Government. In particular, the UK Government must provide swift clarity on how today’s Spring Statement, including its profoundly concerning planned cuts to welfare, will impact Scotland’s economy and Budget.
“I am focused on delivering economic growth with the limited powers the Scottish Government holds, and creating an investor-friendly environment.
“Already this year we have seen significant investments in a subsea cable manufacturer at Hunterston and new port infrastructure from Scapa to Montrose, and we are laser-focused on unlocking new private investment in the country’s rapidly growing offshore wind industry.”
Last month, data from the Scottish Government showed that Scotland’s GDP grew by 1.1% in 2024, compared to 0.9% for the UK as a whole.
