‘Welcome News’: Kentucky Distillers Applaud Donald Trump’s Decision to Roll Back Tariffs on Scotch Whisky

President Donald Trump speaks before signing an executive order regarding retirement savings in the Oval Office of the White House, Thursday, April 30, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

The Kentucky Distillers’ Association released a statement applauding President Donald Trump’s Thursday decision to remove tariffs on Scotch whisky, calling the move a restoration of reciprocal, tariff-free trade between Kentucky and Scotland’s whisky industries.

The statement follows Thursday’s announcement that the U.S. will eliminate tariffs on Scotch, a policy shift expected to ease pressure on transatlantic whisky trade and reinforce long-standing supply chain ties.

The KDA emphasized the importance of barrel exports, noting that Scottish distillers have long been the largest international buyers of used Kentucky bourbon barrels — a key secondary market created by U.S. regulations requiring bourbon to be aged in new charred oak barrels. Scotland doesn’t have such a regulation, and a majority of scotch whiskies are aged in ex-bourbon barrels.

Economic Stakes for Kentucky

According to the KDA, Kentucky’s bourbon industry contributes more than $10.6 billion annually to the state economy and supports nearly 24,000 jobs.

The group framed the tariff removal as a positive development at a time when bourbon producers continue to navigate broader industry challenges, including shifting global demand and trade disruptions.

Here is the Kentucky Distillers’ Association’s statement in full:

“For generations, Kentucky and Scotland have been close partners in crafting the world’s most sought‑after whiskies. The Kentucky Distillers’ Association applauds President Trump’s decision to remove tariffs and restrictions on Scotch whisky. This action restores reciprocal, tariff-free trade between our historic spirits and is especially important for Kentucky, as Scotch distillers have long been the largest export market for Kentucky’s used Bourbon barrels.

Kentucky Bourbon is a cornerstone of our state’s economy, contributing over $10.6 billion annually and supporting nearly 24,000 jobs across the Commonwealth. While Kentucky Bourbon continues to face its fair share of challenges, this development is welcome news for our signature industry’s ongoing efforts to share America’s only native spirit with enthusiasts around the world.”

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