- After King Charles and Queen Camilla's state visit, Trump agreed to lift tariffs on Scotch whisky.
- The 10% tariff on Scotch whisky was officially removed on July 24, 2026.
- Within 48 hours of the tariff removal, the first shipment of tariff-free Scotch whisky departed for the US.
- Despite lifting the whisky tariffs, Trump imposed a new 10% tariff on other UK imports.
- The US imposed a 10% tariff on Scotch whisky in April 2025, which was set to increase to 25% for single malts.
- Scotland exports more whisky to the US than any other country, with the US market valued at £933 million in 2025.
The lifting of tariffs on Scotch whisky exports to the U.S. is a significant victory for the industry, valued at £933 million in 2025. The first shipment, worth £60,000, will utilize digital trade processes, enhancing efficiency and reducing costs.78
Scotland's First Minister John Swinney hailed the agreement as a "win on both sides of the Atlantic," emphasizing the collaboration between the UK and U.S. bourbon industries. "We were able to partner with the bourbon industry in the United States, raise the issue with President Trump in the Oval Office, and get this issue on his agenda," he stated.
The Scotch Whisky Association noted that the industry supports 41,000 jobs in Scotland and an additional 25,000 jobs across the UK. The removal of tariffs is expected to bolster confidence in investment and exports, benefiting not only whisky producers but also related sectors such as cooperages and hospitality.
Despite the positive news, the Trump administration has imposed a new 10% tariff on other UK imports. "The industry was being harmed by the existence of tariffs from the United States. There’s obviously a range of other tariffs being applied by President Trump. But for Scotch whisky, the tariffs are gone," said a spokesperson from the Scotch Whisky Association.
The deal also allows for tariff-free imports of U.S. bourbon and barrels to the UK, further strengthening trade ties. "This outcome is testament to the strength of the enduring relationship between the UK and the US," remarked a representative from the Scotch whisky industry.
“The first shipment, worth £60,000, uses exclusively digital trade processes, cutting shipping costs and loading times, with smaller businesses expected to benefit most. Separately, HSBC agreed to sell its Singapore life and health insurance business to Allianz for $2.1bn, while Renishaw upgraded guidance for its 2026 financial year with revenue up 14%.”
The Independent
The Times
