Trade has always been about more than the exchange of goods and services. At its best, it is about people, relationships, opportunity and recognition that prosperity is strengthened when we open our economies and societies to one another. I have seen this across the United States, the UK and Scotland.

The scale of these individual economies varies, yet each demonstrates an important truth. Prosperity is rarely created alone. It is built through connections with people, businesses, institutions and communities beyond borders drawn on a map.

Implied in the very idea of trade is the concept of giving. We give something of value and, in return, we receive something of value. As we give, we create the opportunity to receive, and that exchange creates prosperity for both sides.

The United States is one of the world’s largest economies, yet its success has been deeply connected to the rest of the world. American companies have gained access to international markets, attracted investment and built global supply chains particularly post Second World War. American ideas, technology and entrepreneurship have travelled worldwide.

Scotland’s experience is different in scale, but the principle is similar. Scotland is a proud nation, with a long history of looking outward and promoting innovation. From whisky and food and drink to financial services, energy, technology, life sciences, tourism and higher........

© Herald Scotland