Royal visit sparks major trade breakthrough
Donald Trump has announced plans to remove all tariffs and trade restrictions on whisky imports following the recent state visit of King Charles III and Queen Camilla to the United States.
The move includes lifting barriers that had limited cooperation between Scotland’s whisky industry and the US state of Kentucky, a major producer of bourbon. The UK government confirmed the policy applies broadly to whisky imports, including Irish whiskey.
Trump said the decision was made “in honour of the King and Queen,” adding that their visit achieved something “nobody else was able to do.” The royal couple spent four days in the US, visiting Washington DC, New York, and Virginia.
Buckingham Palace responded by saying the King expressed “sincere gratitude” and would “raise a dram” in appreciation. Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney welcomed the announcement, calling it “tremendous news” after months of financial losses for the sector.
The tariffs—set at 10%—had significantly impacted exports, with industry leaders estimating losses of around £4 million per week. Additional tariffs of up to 25% on single malts were expected to return soon if no agreement was reached.
The Scotch whisky industry also relies heavily on Kentucky bourbon barrels, importing around £200 million worth each year. Trump highlighted this connection, noting the importance of both industries.
Industry representatives said the decision would ease pressure on distillers. Graeme Littlejohn of the Scotch Whisky Association described the move as a “real boost,” crediting months of high-level negotiations and suggesting the royal visit helped finalize the deal.
UK Business and Trade Secretary Peter Kyle added that the decision supports an industry worth nearly £1 billion in exports and thousands of jobs across the UK.
