Donald Trump has announced the removal of tariffs on Scotch whisky, citing the influence of King Charles III and Queen Camilla’s recent visit to the White House. The US president said the royal couple “got me to do something that nobody else was able to do”.
In a post on his Truth Social platform, Mr Trump said the tariffs and restrictions on whisky would be removed “in honor of the King and Queen of the United Kingdom”. He noted the relationship between Scotch whisky and American bourbon, particularly the use of wooden barrels sourced from the US.
The 10% tariff had been imposed as part of a broader trade dispute, and without intervention the industry faced a further 25% tariff in the spring. The Scotch Whisky Association said the current tariffs were costing firms £3 million in lost exports each week.
First Minister John Swinney hailed the decision as “tremendous news for Scotland”, saying he had made it his mission to lift the tariffs. He thanked the King for his “key role” and said the Scottish Government had worked directly with the president during his visit to Scotland and in Washington.
However, Scottish Conservative leader Russell Findlay accused Mr Swinney of dishonesty, saying “the King has secured an agreement” and questioning why the SNP were “so dishonest”. Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar praised the UK Government’s “extensive engagement and negotiation”.
Mark Kent, chief executive of the Scotch Whisky Association, said the deal was “a significant boost” and that distillers “can breathe a little easier”. He thanked all those who worked to return zero-for-zero tariff trade for whisky and bourbon.
