Brexit
October 2019
The Scotch Whisky industry continues to believe that it would be better for the UK to leave the EU with a deal that would minimise disruption to manufacturing and trade. A no-deal exit or prolonged uncertainty, particularly in the run up to the busy festive period, would force unwelcome cost and complexity into the production and export of Scotch Whisky and risks impacting our global competitiveness.
On balance, the revised Withdrawal Agreement stands up well against the priorities of the Scotch Whisky industry. If the deal is rejected, it will only add to the uncertainty that the industry has been subjected to over the last three years.
The implementation of a 25% tariff on exports of Single Malt Scotch Whisky to the United States has put additional pressure on our member companies during this uncertain period. This tariff will harm investment and prosperity at a time when the industry is already being impacted by the uncertainty of a no-deal exit from the EU. This uncertainty can be lifted by agreeing to the Withdrawal Deal.
We urge the government and MPs to work constructively together to agree terms on the UK's departure from the EU, to ensure a stable transition during which Scotch Whisky can be exported efficiently to the EU market, and to countries outside the EU. In addition, it is imperative that the UK, EU and US take urgent action to de-escalate the trade disputes that have given rise to the recent tariff announcements, for which Scotch Whisky is bearing a significant liability as an unrelated sector.
news & commentary
SWA statement on Withdrawal Agreement
Our industry has consistently called for clarity over what that UK's new relationship with the EU will look like in practice, particularly on the continued protection of geographical indications, customs procedures and future trade policy.
Karen Betts Speech to Scotsman Food & Drink Conference
The water of life: how Scotland's national drink is confronting new challenges to thrive beyond Brexit
Scotch Whisky looks for continued growth through Brexit
The Scotch Whisky industry's recent growth must be maintained beyond Brexit, delegates at the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA) conference heard today.
Scotch Whisky Association welcomes Brexit transition agreement
The Scotch Whisky Association has set out the priorities for the Scotch Whisky industry as the Brexit transition agreement is set to be approved by EU leaders.
Comment on PM Brexit speech
"The Prime Minister's speech has taken us closer to the clarity which key industries like Scotch Whisky require if we are to mitigate the risks and harness the opportunities of Brexit.
SWA comment on Brexit transition
SWA welcomes the clear progress made in the first phase of the Brexit negotiations
publications
Scotch Whisky Brexit Brief
On balance, the draft Withdrawal Agreement and accompanying Political Declaration on the Future UK-EU Relationship stand up well against the Scotch Whisky industry's Brexit priorities.