Scotland's First Minister, John Swinney, has made a direct appeal to former US President Donald Trump to remove punitive tariffs on Scotch whisky, a move that could safeguard thousands of jobs and protect a cornerstone of Scotland's economy.
In a strongly worded statement, Swinney highlighted the disproportionate impact of the tariffs on Scotland's whisky producers, which have faced significant financial strain since the measures were introduced. "Scotch whisky is not just a product—it's a global symbol of Scottish heritage and craftsmanship," he said.
Why Scotch Whisky Tariffs Matter
The US imposed a 25% tariff on single-malt Scotch whisky in 2019 as part of a trade dispute with the EU over aircraft subsidies. Despite Brexit, the tariffs have remained in place, costing the industry hundreds of millions in lost exports.
Key concerns include:
- Declining export revenues, down by 30% in some markets
- Threats to rural employment in Scotland’s whisky-producing regions
- Potential long-term damage to brand reputation in the US
Political and Economic Stakes
Swinney's intervention comes as trade relations between the UK and US remain uncertain. With Trump eyeing a potential return to the White House, Scottish leaders are keen to avoid another four years of trade barriers.
"This isn’t about politics—it’s about protecting livelihoods," Swinney added, emphasising the bipartisan nature of the issue.
Industry experts warn that without relief, smaller distilleries could face closure, further consolidating power among major whisky producers.
