Scotland Office

UK whisky products will face zero tariffs in the United States from 24 July 2026 under an agreement reached during King Charles III’s April visit. The measure is expected to benefit Scotland’s distilleries and supply chains, with UK whisky exports to the US valued at about £1 billion in 2025. The UK Government and industry representatives say the change will support investment, exports, jobs and economic growth. The announcement also highlights a new India trade agreement, which reduces whisky tariffs from 150% to 40% over ten years, alongside wider UK trade deals with China, the Gulf Co-operation Council and the European Union.

The Secretary of State for Scotland met Florida Governor Ron DeSantis in Edinburgh to discuss expanding economic and cultural ties between Scotland and Florida. The visit, part of a Select Florida trade delegation, highlighted shared opportunities in technology, tourism, professional services, space exploration and exports. Recent tariff reductions on whisky and preferential terms for UK autos, steel and aluminium exports to the US were noted as strengthening transatlantic trade. British exports to Florida reached $3 billion in 2024, with both sides aiming to deepen cooperation following positive exchanges during the World Cup and the delegation’s visit.