End of Trump tariffs on whisky sparks row between Scottish parties over claiming credit
The US has lifted tariffs on Scotch whisky, a move welcomed by the industry after an estimated £150m in losses and job cuts. Scottish First Minister John Swinney claimed credit, citing a direct message from Donald Trump acknowledging his influence, while UK and Scottish Labour officials dismissed the claim. The announcement coincided with a royal visit and has sparked political debate over who deserves credit for the policy change.
- ▪The US lifted 10% tariffs on Scotch whisky, which had cost producers an estimated £150m in lost sales.
- ▪First Minister John Swinney said President Trump credited him with highlighting the economic link between Scottish whisky and bourbon barrel sales in Kentucky.
- ▪Scottish Labour and UK ministers rejected Swinney's claims, asserting that the UK government led the negotiations.
- ▪Trump announced the tariff removal on Truth Social, linking it to the visit of King Charles and Queen Camilla.
- ▪The Scotch Whisky Association credited both sustained negotiations and the soft power of the monarchy for the outcome.
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The US is Scotland’s largest whisky market, worth about £1bn a year. Photograph: Murdo MacLeod/The GuardianView image in fullscreenThe US is Scotland’s largest whisky market, worth about £1bn a year. Photograph: Murdo MacLeod/The GuardianScottish politicsEnd of Trump tariffs on whisky sparks row between Scottish parties over claiming creditFirst minister John Swinney says he played significant role but Labour rejects claim and accuses SNP of hypocrisySeverin Carrell Scotland editorFri 1 May 2026 10.33 EDTFirst published on Fri 1 May 2026 08.53 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleDonald Trump’s announcement that he will lift punishing US tariffs on scotch whisky has been overshadowed by a row between rival Scottish party leaders over claiming credit for the decision.The whisky industry…
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