Edinburgh — The United States has removed tariffs on Scotch whisky, a move announced by President Donald Trump that brings relief to Scotland’s whisky industry after months of losses in its main export market.
The sector had been losing around £4 million per week due to lower exports to the U.S., its largest market by value.
According to the Scotch Whisky Association, exports to the U.S. reached about £933 million in 2025, part of a global industry worth more than £5.3 billion, with over 1.3 billion bottles exported worldwide.
Trade between both markets also includes U.S. bourbon barrels, worth about £200 million per year, which are key for aging Scotch whisky.
The decision is seen as a major boost for an industry that supports thousands of jobs and is a key part of Scotland’s global identity.
The announcement has also entered Scotland’s political debate. First Minister John Swinney welcomed the move, while Labour leaders such as Anas Sarwar and Jackie Baillie said the result comes from UK government efforts and industry negotiations.
Beyond politics, the removal of tariffs strengthens Scotch whisky’s role as a global economic driver.
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