Blow as whisky tariff stays 25%

Scotch whisky-makers have said they are “deeply disappointed” by a new US update on tariffs that maintains a 25% tax on single malt whisky imports to America.

The tariff, which also affects whisky liqueurs, has been in place since October 18 as part of a trade war between the US and EU.

A top boss at whisky giant Diageo warned recently that the trade barrier threatened thousands of Scottish jobs.

Responding to the latest US notification, Scotch Whisky

“We could be facing at least £100 million in lost exports”

Association chief executive Karen Betts said: “We’re deeply disappointed that a 25% tariff remains in place on exports of single malt Scotch whisky and liqueurs to the United States.

“This tariff has now been in place for four months and is hitting Scotch whisky producers hard, particularly small distilleries.

“We’ve seen a significant drop in exports already, and based on this we believe we could be facing at least £100 million in lost exports over a year.”

She added: “The EU, US and UK must now redouble their efforts to resolve transatlantic trade disputes quickly. It cannot be right that our industry is continuing to pay the price.”