Scotch Whisky Tariffs Lifted by Trump After Meeting

President Trump lifts tariffs on Scotch whisky imports, marking a significant trade win for the UK following discussions during King Charles’ visit.

The Scottish government has welcomed the lifting of tariffs on Scotch whisky exports to the United States. This favorable move comes as President Donald Trump has imposed new levies on hundreds of international trading partners.

The agreement will also allow U.S. bourbon and casks to arrive in the UK without tariffs. Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney referred to it as a “win on both sides of the Atlantic,” a comment reflecting the positive tone surrounding the announcement.

Trump’s decision followed a state visit by King Charles and Queen Camilla to the U.S. in April. Initially, the U.S. had placed a 10% levy on Scotch whisky imports in April 2025, which was on track to increase to 25% for single malts earlier this year.

Scotland exports more whisky to the U.S. than any other country, making this deal particularly vital. According to the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA), the tariffs had cost the industry around £150 million, with the U.S. market valued at approximately £933 million in 2025.

Emily Weaver Rhodes, deputy director at the SWA, noted that the removal of tariffs underscores the positive relationship between the U.S. and the UK. “There are really strong grounds and good evidence for why this is important not just for the UK, but for the U.S. economy and that is delivering on the president’s ambition to create jobs,” she stated. “I think on both sides of the Atlantic we are raising a dram to celebrate.”

The arrangement also includes the importation of Kentucky bourbon barrels used to age Scotch whisky, which will now be tariff-free in the UK. In further comments, First Minister Swinney added, “This is a win for Scotland and a win for the United States. It benefits businesses and workers on both sides of the Atlantic, and not just among whisky producers, but also the businesses and communities that support the sector across Scotland.”

Trump’s earlier announcement to drop whisky tariffs triggered a debate over who could take credit for the decision. Swinney shared that he had previously raised the issue with Trump during a meeting in the Oval Office.

Political opponents, however, have accused Swinney of using King Charles as a reference point to claim credit for the deal. Swinney remarked that the resolution came thanks to the “remarkable contribution of the King” and a coordinated effort he termed as a “Team Scotland” approach.

In a statement, he concluded, “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.”

The impact of Trump’s tariffs on the U.S. economy remains a talking point, as they have resulted in rising costs domestically and have drawn international scrutiny. Meanwhile, a bridge linking Michigan to Ontario is set to open, but Canada has decided to disinvite American dignitaries from the ceremony, showcasing ongoing tensions in trade relations.