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China Slashes Scotch Whisky Tariffs, Boosting UK Exports

1/30/2026

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Summary

Story summary

China will cut tariffs on Scotch whisky from 10% to 5% on February 2, 2026, after talks between Prime Minister Keir Starmer and President Xi Jinping.
The cut is expected to generate £250 million for UK whisky exporters over five years.
In 2024, China was the tenth-largest market for Scotch whisky, with imports valued at £161 million.
Mark Kent, CEO of the Scotch Whisky Association, welcomed the move.

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Story summary

China will cut tariffs on Scotch whisky from 10% to 5% on February 2, 2026, after talks between Prime Minister Keir Starmer and President Xi Jinping.
The cut is expected to generate £250 million for UK whisky exporters over five years.
In 2024, China was the tenth-largest market for Scotch whisky, with imports valued at £161 million.
Mark Kent, CEO of the Scotch Whisky Association, welcomed the move.