Trump Removes Tariffs on Scotch Whisky and Related Products
President Donald Trump announced the removal of certain tariffs on Scotch whisky and related goods, linking the decision to a recent White House visit by King Charles III and Queen Camilla.
The announcement came at the conclusion of the King's four-day state visit. Buckingham Palace issued a statement of gratitude, while Scottish political and industry figures praised the move. Specific details regarding the full scope of the tariff removal remain unconfirmed.
Key Announcements and Statements
President Trump stated on social media that he is removing tariffs and restrictions on goods including wooden barrels used for aging Scotch and bourbon. Speaking in the Oval Office, he said the action was intended to enhance barrel trade between Scotland and Kentucky, which produces the majority of the global supply of bourbon. He added that he is "not a big drinker."
A White House statement did not clarify the precise details of the announcement.
U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer later stated that the U.S. would provide "preferential duty access for whiskey produced in the United Kingdom." The administration did not immediately specify whether this involved eliminating or lowering tariffs on bottled whisky, only on related materials.
A Buckingham Palace spokesperson confirmed that King Charles was informed of the decision. According to the spokesperson, the King "sends his sincere gratitude for a decision that will make an important difference to the British whisky industry and the livelihoods it supports." The spokesperson added that the King "will be raising a dram to the President’s thoughtfulness and generous hospitality."
Reactions from Industry and Political Figures
Scotland's First Minister John Swinney interpreted the move as a removal of tariffs on Scotch, calling it a "tremendous success" for Scotland and expressing gratitude to President Trump and King Charles III.
Chris Swonger, president of the Distilled Spirits Council in the U.S., also interpreted the announcement as removing the 10% tariff on UK whisky, praising the move as restoring a "zero-for-zero" trade model.
Trade Context
The Trump administration imposed a 10% tariff on most British goods in 2025 under a trade framework. The source of the tariff announcement did not confirm whether the new measures fully reverse or modify that 10% tariff.
The Scotch Whisky Association reported a 15% decline in export volume to the U.S. following the April 2025 tariff announcement.