Trump lifts whisky tariffs after royal visit
US President Donald Trump has removed barriers on Scotch and Irish whiskey imports following the state visit by King Charles. Industry figures have welcomed the relief after months of declining exports and mounting financial strain.
Donald Trump has announced the removal of all tariffs and restrictions on whisky imports into the United States, a move he said was made in honour of King Charles III and Queen Camilla following their recent state visit.
According to remarks made by Trump, the decision was tied directly to the visit, with the president stating the occasion “got me to do something that nobody else was able to do, without hardly even asking”. The removal applies across all whisky categories, including Irish whiskey.
Trade links between Scotland and Kentucky restored
Trump said the policy change would also lift restrictions affecting Scotland’s ability to collaborate with the Commonwealth of Kentucky on whisky and Bourbon production. As per his statement on Truth Social, these industries are closely connected, particularly through the trade in wooden barrels.
The Scotch whisky sector has long relied on casks from Kentucky’s bourbon industry, importing around £200m worth each year, according to industry data. Trump confirmed that “Scotland and Kentucky can start dealing again” following the removal of restrictions.
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Economic pressures had mounted
The tariff removal follows a difficult period for Scotch whisky exports. According to the Scotch Whisky Association, shipments to the United States fell sharply after a 10% tariff was introduced in April 2025.
Export volumes declined by 15% between May and December 2025, according to SWA figures, with the US remaining the industry’s most valuable overseas market despite the downturn. There had also been concern over the possible return of a 25% tariff on single malts, which could have increased to 35% as per earlier warnings from the trade body.
Mark Kent, chief executive of the Scotch Whisky Association, said: “This deal is a significant boost for the Scotch whisky industry in our most valuable export market. Distillers can breathe a little easier during a period of significant pressure on the sector.
Kent also pointed to the long-standing relationship between Scotch whisky and American whiskey producers, saying this announcement would help reinvigorate that connection. As per his comments, the industry can now refocus on expanding the benefits these sectors bring to communities in both Scotland and the United States.
While challenges remain, particularly around domestic costs and global trade conditions, the removal of tariffs marks a notable shift for a sector that has faced mounting uncertainty over the past year.
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