The United States has officially restored zero tariffs on Scotch whisky imports, with the changes taking effect on Friday, 24 July.
The decision marks the return of tariff-free trade between Scotland’s whisky industry and its largest export market by value. In 2025, Scotch whisky exports to the United States were worth approximately £933 million. During the period in which the 10% tariff was in place, export volumes to the US dipped by 15%.
The removal of those tariffs has been welcomed across the Scotch whisky industry and is expected to provide a more favourable trading environment for producers, exporters and the wider supply chain. While it will take time for the full commercial impact to become clear, the return to tariff-free trade removes an additional barrier for one of Scotland’s most significant international industries.
For cask owners and prospective purchasers, the announcement is another reminder of the importance of global demand and international market access in supporting the long-term strength of Scotch whisky. Although tariff changes alone do not determine market performance, continued access to key export markets remains an important factor in the health and resilience of the wider Scotch whisky sector.