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Scottish First Minister Urges US to Lift Whisky Tariff

9/8/2025

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Summary

Story summary

John Swinney, Scotland's First Minister, is in the US to push for removing a 10% tariff on Scotch whisky.
This tariff costs the whisky industry £4 million weekly, affecting £971 million in exports for 2024.
Swinney seeks better trade terms before President Trump's state visit to the UK.
He will engage with Congress members and whisky leaders to highlight Scotch's economic significance.
The Scotch Whisky Association backs Swinney, noting the distinctiveness of Scotch production.

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Story summary

John Swinney, Scotland's First Minister, is in the US to push for removing a 10% tariff on Scotch whisky.
This tariff costs the whisky industry £4 million weekly, affecting £971 million in exports for 2024.
Swinney seeks better trade terms before President Trump's state visit to the UK.
He will engage with Congress members and whisky leaders to highlight Scotch's economic significance.
The Scotch Whisky Association backs Swinney, noting the distinctiveness of Scotch production.