Scottish Secretary Douglas Alexander is set to press the case for lifting US tariffs on whisky during talks with the American ambassador this Friday, highlighting the significant financial toll the levies are exacting on Scotland’s iconic spirit.
Industry estimates suggest the tariffs on Scotland’s whisky exports to the US are costing around £4 million a week, sparking united efforts from both the UK and Scottish Governments to secure an exemption from the Trump administration’s duties.
Ahead of his meeting with US Ambassador Warren Stephens in Edinburgh, Mr Alexander underscored the importance of a coordinated approach. “The UK Government has forged a strong and productive relationship with the government of the United States which has brought, and will continue to bring, real benefits on both sides of the Atlantic,” he said.
He added: “Scotland’s interests are best served when the UK speaks with one clear voice on the international stage. Division at home simply weakens us abroad. The UK Government is committed to using our experience, expertise and negotiating power to deliver for Scotland.”
Following talks in Edinburgh, Ambassador Stephens is also scheduled to attend the Scotland v US rugby match at Murrayfield on Saturday, accompanied by First Minister John Swinney. The First Minister has also pursued the whisky issue directly with President Trump on three separate occasions, both in the UK and at the White House in Washington DC.
The Scottish Secretary echoed the renewed emphasis on the whisky trade as a national priority: “The UK Government has been in active and continuous negotiations with US counterparts building on the economic prosperity deal in the interests of Scottish businesses. Central to this has been ensuring a strong focus on supporting and growing the Scotch Whisky industry.”
He said: “Our focus continues to be getting the best deal for Scotland and the whole of the UK. Whether it’s supporting our world-leading whisky industry or opening up new markets for Scottish exports, we are determined to deliver results through the strength of the UK’s international standing.”
