Trump to lift tariffs on scotch whisky after king’s US visit
Following King Charles III's state visit to the United States, President Donald Trump announced the removal of tariffs on Scotch whisky imports as a diplomatic gesture. The move, praised by the Scotch Whisky Association, is seen as a significant relief for an industry facing financial pressure from previous tariffs and declining alcohol consumption. Trump credited the royal couple for促成 the decision, highlighting the symbolic and economic ties between Scotland and Kentucky in whisky production.
- ▪President Donald Trump announced the removal of U.S. tariffs on Scotch whisky imports after King Charles III's visit to the White House.
- ▪The tariffs were previously set at a 10% baseline under a 2025 U.S.-UK trade agreement, down from an initial 27.5% proposed rate.
- ▪The Scotch Whisky Association welcomed the decision, stating it provides a significant boost to an industry losing £4 million per week due to tariffs.
- ▪Trump cited the influence of King Charles and Queen Camilla in making the decision, calling it a gesture honoring the UK monarchy.
- ▪The move highlights trade connections between Scotland’s whisky industry and Kentucky’s bourbon producers, particularly regarding barrel usage.
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A whisky cocktail at the Laphroaig distillery on Islay in Scotland. Photograph: Stefano Guidi/Getty ImagesView image in fullscreenA whisky cocktail at the Laphroaig distillery on Islay in Scotland. Photograph: Stefano Guidi/Getty ImagesTrump tariffsTrump to lift tariffs on scotch whisky after king’s US visitPresident says decision made ‘in honor of the king and queen’ as industry officials call deal ‘significant boost’Lauren Aratani in New YorkThu 30 Apr 2026 16.04 EDTLast modified on Thu 30 Apr 2026 16.10 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleIn a gesture of diplomatic friendliness after King Charles’s visit to the White House, Donald Trump said the US would be removing all tariffs on whisky imports.“In Honor of the King and Queen of the United Kingdom, who have just left the White House,…
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