Can Keir Starmer Charm Donald Trump into Lowering Tariffs on Scotch Whisky?

The White House has confirmed that Donald Trump will be visiting Scotland between 25th and 29th July.  Scheduled in that trip is a meeting with Sir Keir Starmer in Aberdeen and also a meeting with First Minister John Swinney.

A pressing agenda

While Mr Trump may emphasise his wish to strengthen the ‘special relationship’ with the nation which was the birthplace of his mother, he has also stated that he will be looking to “refine the trade deal that we’ve made.”

That trade deal made in April of this year imposed an immediate 10% levy on scotch whisky imported into the US, a move which was a huge blow to the industry. With exports of Scotch whisky to the US market reaching £971 million / US$ 1.2 billion in 2024, 10% lost to tariffs is a considerable sum.

Calls for the PM to secure a better deal

It’s no wonder therefore that pressure is mounting for Sir Keir to take charge and actively support Scotland’s biggest beverage export.

A spokesperson for the Scotch Whisky Association confirmed that this meeting is the perfect time for the Prime Minister to act for the good of the industry;

"President Trump's visit to Scotland is a timely opportunity for the UK government to re-engage in discussions to remove the tariffs on Scotch whisky in the industry's largest global market."

"The Prime Minister should seize this moment to strike a deal to return the zero-tariff agreement which has underpinned industry jobs, investment and growth in both Scotland and in the US.”

Other matters may prove more important

Whether Mr Trump views the tariffs on Scotch whisky as a stumbling block in the two nations’ relationship remains to be seen. He currently appears more concerned about removing wind turbines from the North Sea and reinstating Oil drilling, a subject which will only serve to fuel tension between the leaders.

Perhaps the mood could be eased with a round on one of his golf courses followed by a dram of Scotch in the clubhouse – tariff free, naturally!