SWA comments after joining the First Minister in Washington DC

Commenting after joining the First Minister in Washington DC to press for the removal of tariffs on Scotch Whisky, Chief Executive of the Scotch Whisky Association Mark Kent said:

“Our discussions in Washington DC give the industry hope, and with President Trump’s state visit just a week away there is momentum to build on as we try to secure a deal which would benefit communities in Scotland and US.

“Nothing is guaranteed, but the First Minister’s constructive discussion with the President, coupled with the continued efforts of the UK government, mean that the united calls of the Scotch Whisky and US whiskey industries to secure a zero tariff deal have been heard.”

Simon Erlanger, Managing Director at Isle of Harris Distillers Ltd, who accompanied the SWA and the First Minister on the Washington DC visit, said: “As an independent distillery, it is an honour to be part of the vital discussions taking place in Washington DC in partnership with the First Minister and the Scotch Whisky Association. When we founded Isle of Harris Distillery 10 years ago, it was with the ambition of creating sustainable employment and opportunities in one of Scotland’s most remote communities. We are now the largest private employer on the island, but like many in our industry we have felt the strain of tariffs that directly impact our ability to protect jobs and invest in growth.

“The visit has underlined the deep connection between the US whiskey and Scotch Whisky industries, a relationship built on reciprocity, for the benefit of producers, consumers and communities on both sides of the Atlantic.

“President Trump has strong ancestral ties to Scotland, with his mother born on the Isle of Lewis mere miles from our home in Harris. That shared heritage underscores the importance continuing progress towards removing tariffs and securing the long-term prosperity of this historic industry. In doing so, we safeguard livelihoods in rural communities like ours, and strengthen the enduring bond between Scotland and the United States.”

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