Spirits industry responds to Trump’s import tariffs
4th April 2025
William Wemyss, founder and director of Wemyss Family Spirits, said that the UK spirits industry has experienced “a sense of déjà vu” following Donald Trump’s recent announcements on international trade.
The US will impose at least a 10% import tariff from 5th April. Several countries will be subject to country-specific tariffs that will take effect on 9th April 2025, including the UK.
This includes a 20% tariff for the EU and 54% for China (including previous tariffs announced). The 25% on Canada and Mexico that were announced last month will be unchanged.
William Wemyss, of Wemyss Family Spirits, which counts Kingsbarns Distillery near St Andrews, as well as Darnley’s Gin and Wemyss Malts among its brands, said: “As a family-owned business producing and selling spirits including Scotch whisky, we are once again bracing for the ripple effects of political decisions made thousands of miles away.
“The looming threat of fresh US tariffs brings a sense of déjà vu, a reminder of the damaging impact of the last trade dispute, which cost our industry £600 million in just 18 months.
“The United States is the industry’s largest export market, approaching £1 billion of sales, and is becoming increasingly important for us as a small player’
“Tariff-free access gives us the confidence to invest, to grow, and to share our craft with whisky lovers across the Atlantic.”
Mr Wemyss urged both the UK and US governments to prioritise Scotch whisky in trade discussions and avoid allowing the sector to become collateral damage once again.
“Long-term investment and jobs depend on it. While we continue to diversify and build resilience, we remain committed to protecting the legacy, quality, and global reputation of Scotch whisky,” he concluded.
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