The Scotch Whisky Association (SWA) has confirmed that tariff-free trade in Scotch Whisky with the United States has been restored as of today. The move follows the exemption announced in April this year, in the wake of His Majesty The King’s State Visit to the US.
The US remains Scotch Whisky’s most valuable export market, worth £933 million in 2025. Following the introduction of a 10% tariff in April 2025, export volumes to the US had declined by around 15%.
Ian Duddy, International Director at the SWA, described the restoration of tariff-free trade as “welcome news for businesses on both sides of the Atlantic.” He noted that the removal of tariffs provides greater confidence to invest, grow exports and support jobs and communities, from distilleries in Scotland to supply chains including cooperages, farmers, hospitality and retail in the US.
The measure forms part of the wider UK-US Economic Prosperity Deal and is understood to restore the “zero-for-zero” tariff model between the Scotch and American whisky industries.
Curious what this means for the export market, rare bottles and cask investments in more detail? In our earlier article from 1 May, written following the announcement of the tariff exemption, we explored the impact in depth.
This article is for information purposes only and does not constitute investment advice.
Frequently asked questions
When was zero-tariff trade for Scotch Whisky restored?
The Scotch Whisky Association confirmed that tariff-free trade with the United States was restored on 24 July 2026. It follows the exemption announced in April 2026, in the wake of King Charles III’s State Visit to the US.
How valuable is the US export market for Scotch Whisky?
The US is Scotch Whisky’s most valuable export market, worth £933 million in 2025. Following the 10% tariff introduced in April 2025, export volumes had declined by around 15%.
What is the “zero-for-zero” model?
The “zero-for-zero” model means the Scotch and American whisky industries levy no import tariffs on each other. It forms part of the wider UK-US Economic Prosperity Deal.
