US removes whisky tariffs, sparking political debate in Scotland

The United States has removed tariffs on whisky imports as part of a zero-for-zero tariff deal, coinciding with King Charles and Queen Camilla's state visit to the US.

This change affects Scotch and Irish whiskey exports to America as well as US bourbon imports to the UK.

The Scotch Whisky Association estimated that the previous US tariffs were costing the industry about £4 million a week.

The trade body worked closely with US counterparts to advocate for this policy shift, which is not a unilateral concession but a mutual tariff removal.

The announcement has triggered political debate in Scotland ahead of the upcoming Scottish Parliament election.

Scottish party leaders from the SNP, Labour, and the Conservatives have all sought to claim credit for the deal, adjusting their campaign activities to highlight their involvement.

Economically, whisky is a significant export for Scotland and the wider UK, making the tariff removal a notable development for the industry.

Politically, the deal underscores the continuing importance of the trans-Atlantic relationship despite tensions related to the Iran war and differing stances on military action.

The Prime Minister has faced criticism from the US President for not supporting US military efforts, while Scotland's First Minister has described the conflict as "illegal" and accused the US President of threatening genocide.

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