By Steve Bargeton, political editor

FIFE AND Tayside could soon be reaping the benefits from an influx of golf tourists from China after a groundbreaking deal signed in Beijing yesterday.

On the first day of a visit to the Chinese capital, First Minister Jack McConnell teamed up with British Airways to launch the first ever golf packages to Scotland from China.

Officials estimate that Chinese tourism could be worth £70 million to Scotland over the next four years.

The package, promoted by the airline, VisitScotland and Chinese golf clubs, is the first to be offered since last year’s removal of restrictions on Chinese tourists travelling to the UK.

Chinese golf enthusiasts are being offered stays of up to five nights and courses that include St Andrews, Carnoustie and Kingsbarns.

The game is booming in China, where the number of courses is expected to almost double this year.

“The whole world is trying to target the massive Chinese tourism market that is opening up,” said Mr McConnell. “We need to play to our strengths and golf is certainly one of them.

“There are many fantastic facilities being developed at present here in China but I believe that any golfer who never plays in Scotland is a golfer unfulfilled.

“There is something special about playing at the home of golf.

“The Chinese have a strong attachment to traditions and history and I know that the birthplace of golf will hold a very strong appeal.”

During his visit, the First Minister also opened Standard Life’s joint venture branch office in the Chinese capital.

The Beijing branch is the third operation to be set up by Heng An Standard Life, a venture between the Scottish mutual and the TEDA Investment Holding Company.

Mr McConnell said, “Over the last few years the world has watched and admired the rapid growth and development of the Chinese economy.

“This joint venture shows how prominent Scottish companies can contribute to that growth and bring benefits to Scotland, too. I want to see more do the same.”

Carnoustie golf services manager Colin McLeod said he was sure that Chinese golf tourism would have a large impact on the county of Angus, writes Andrew Jarret.

“We already have ongoing links with China through Angus Council and are fully aware of the importance of the blossoming Chinese economy to Scotland,” he said.

“At Carnoustie we are extremely keen to forge links and do business with China because the long-term benefits will be felt in the town, the county and ultimately the whole country.

“China is an emerging nation and is going to be a major market for us in the future. This deal is good news for Carnoustie Golf Links,” he added.