Jobs and exports 'grow in Scotland’s pharmaceutical sector'

Employment and exports have continued to grow in Scotland’s pharmaceutical sector, according to a new report.

Figures from the University of Strathclyde’s Fraser of Allander Institute report suggest the industry is worth £1.8bn, almost 6% higher than when the last major review took place in 2017.

It indicates the industry now exports £575m worth of manufactured goods, up from the £550m also reported in 2017.

Across Scotland there are currently around 5600 people directly employed by pharmaceutical companies with the majority of jobs in North Ayrshire, the Highlands and Dundee.

The annual average salary of £35,600 is described by the Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry (ABPI) Scotland as “significantly higher than Scotland’s annual median income of £24,486”.

It also marks a 9% increase on the 5130 full-time equivalent employees reported in 2018.

Alison Culpan, ABPI Scotland director, said: “In a year that has seen our companies stepping up and starting to lead us out of the pandemic with the vital vaccines we need, I am proud that the pharmaceutical industry continues to thrive in Scotland.

“Scotland’s industry is stronger today than it was three years ago with more people employed in good jobs, more being spent on research and development, and exports topping half a billion pounds.

“It is important that the Scottish Government is ambitious and works with us to nurture and promote a sector which is not only exporting Scottish excellence around the world but delivering for the health of people here in Scotland.”

Mairi Spowage, Fraser of Allander Institute deputy director, also said: “Our economic analysis shows that the industry continues to grow in Scotland with direct employment, exports and GVA increasing.

“The contribution of the sector extends beyond the activities of pharmaceutical companies themselves, with their output supporting employment and income right across the country including areas of historically high unemployment and deprivation.”