Asians add £103bn to economy
ALAN JONES
The Scotsman
Tuesday, 13th September 2005
BRITISH Asians contribute £103 billion (US$185 billion) a year to the UK economy, even though many arrived in this country penniless, homeless and unable to speak English, according to a report.
A study by the Institute of Asian Professionals showed that Asians make up 2.5 per cent of the population, but account for ten per cent of UK economic output.
The findings came as Lords, entrepreneurs, financiers, scientists, lawyers, surgeons and community leaders prepared to meet in London tonight to mark their contributions. The institute published an Asian Power List, adding that the research came at a time when many Asians felt their lives were under "intense scrutiny".
Chairman Khalid Darr said: "The figures are quite staggering. Many on the list arrived on these shores without a penny to their name, and they have built multi-million-pound business empires.
"Entrepreneurship, coupled with a wonderful work ethic and a desire to better oneself, is a potent force driving the British Asian business community."
Business leaders on the list included steel company magnate Lakshmi Mittal and Sir Gulam Noon, whose firm produces 1.2 million ready-meals every week.
Edinburgh-based Indian food maker Shahwen Unis is among the best-known Asian success stories in Scotland. She came to Britain as a young bride from Pakistan in 1967 and created an award-winning business.
She and her husband opened their first restaurant, Babar, in Tollcross, in 1974 and six years later a second, Nadia, followed in Dalry Road. The company then expanded into the retail, wholesale and catering markets.
In 1999, the purpose-built factory opened, becoming Edinburgh's only speciality Indian food manufacturer. The company, which employs more than 20 staff, has a varied client base throughout Scotland, with an annual turnover in excess of £500,000.