Scotland's businesses, industry organisations and policymakers need to make "practical and tough decisions" to build an economy fit for the future, according to a report from the Fraser of Allander Institute.
Scotland in 2050: Realising Our Global Potential finds that difficult decisions are necessary both to deliver sustainable long-term economic growth and to continue to fund public services at the current level under the new Block Grant Adjustment agreed between Westminster and Holyrood.
The report aims to start a conversation with Scottish businesses and organisations active in all sectors of the economy to mitigate the challenges and seize the opportunities ahead in a rapidly-evolving global economy.
These insights will feed into a final report that will be published early next year to help inform the policy decisions made by the Scottish and UK governments.
Professor Graeme Roy, Director of the Fraser of Allander Institute at the University of Strathclyde, said, "This report sets out some of the key global trends that will shape Scotland's economic future. In doing so, we've also highlighted where there are opportunities for Scotland to grow and prosper.
"Whilst Brexit uncertainty continues to dominate current thinking, it is vitally important that Scotland's business leaders, industry bodies and politicians do not lose sight of the wider opportunities, challenges and global changes that Scotland faces in the years ahead."
Paul Hally, Chairman of Shepherd and Wedderburn, said, "We commissioned
the Fraser of Allander Institute to conduct this landmark research project
to inform a conversation that will help us identify the sectoral
strengths, strategies and policies that will best serve our nation in the
years ahead. We look forward to businesses and industry organisations
bringing their unique perspectives to this important conversation and
helping shape our economic future."