Scottish First Minister Flies Washington Push Lower Whisky Tariffs

John Swinney, the Scottish First Minister, has traveled to Washington, D.C. to advocate for a reduction in the 10 percent US import tariffs on Scotch whisky, which currently cost the industry approximately £4 million per week. Accompanied by representatives from the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA) and the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (Discus), Swinney aims to promote the case for lower tariffs ahead of President Donald Trump's state visit to the UK. While it is unclear if Swinney will meet directly with President Trump, he is engaging with industry leaders, political representatives, and key members of Congress to emphasize the economic importance of Scotch whisky to both Scotland and the US market, where it is the largest export by value. Swinney highlighted the mutual benefits of tariff reductions, noting that Scottish distillers also invest heavily in US bourbon casks, strengthening the trade relationship. The visit builds on Swinney's prior discussions with Trump during the president’s visit to Scotland, where whisky tariffs were placed firmly on the trade agenda. The Scottish government and industry leaders hope this diplomatic effort will lead to a more favorable tariff arrangement as part of ongoing UK-US trade negotiations.