Recent figures from the Scottish Retail Consortium (SRC) have provoked concern in the Scottish Borders about footfall and vacant shops.
The SRC reported that footfall across Scotland was down by 0.4% and that 1 in 10 shops in Scotland sit empty.
The reports from the SRC prompted Rachael Hamilton MSP to ask the Deputy First Minister (deputising for the First Minister at First Minister Questions) about what action the Government will take to address the issue.
Mrs Hamilton also raised that the Scottish Government's large business supplement is double the United Kingdom rate, further damaging many struggling high street stores.
Latest statistics for the Scottish Borders show footfall in towns such as Jedburgh have fallen by 6%; Eyemouth by 7%; and Kelso by 4%.
Chirnside (30%), Coldstream (17%) and Jedburgh (15%) recorded some of the highest retail unit vacancy rates in the Scottish Borders. Despite the Borders performing, on average, better than Scotland nationally.
Disposable income is likely to shrink for many if the Scottish Government introduce their new tax plans that will see everyone in Scotland earning more than £24,000 pay higher taxes.
Rachael Hamilton MSP said: "The latest statistics from the SRC are a worry for businesses up and down the country including here in the Scottish Borders. Footfall and retail vacancy rates in some parts of the Borders have been concerning for some time and the Borders will not be immune from this latest national trend.
"To add further anxiety for businesses, the SNP Government are planning to raise income tax for everyone earning over 24 thousand pounds which will reduce disposable incomes and make people even less likely to go out and spend their hard earned money.
"The SNP Government needs to stop plans to raise income taxes and instead invest in our Borders towns to see growth here.
"The UK Government certainly is investing in the Scottish Borders through the Borderlands growth deal. The SNP need to do the same."