Press release

Free trade agreements crucial for Scotch Whisky

Scotch Whisky amounting to £4.3 billion was exported in 2012 according to figures released today.

This was published under the 2010 to 2015 Conservative and Liberal Democrat coalition government

Commenting on the news today that Scotch Whisky exports last year hit a record £4.3 billion, the Secretary of State for Scotland, Michael Moore said:

“Today’s figures show that the Scotch Whisky industry continues to lead the way as one of the UK’s exporting success stories and highlights the benefits of combining UK influence and Scottish excellence.

“Free trade agreements such as the one recently agreed between the EU and Singapore are crucial to Scotch Whisky’s global success. The UK Government is able to use its clout and influence as a major EU Member State to ensure that such agreements deliver increased export opportunities for industries such as Scotch Whisky. With the UK’s extensive diplomatic, consular and trade networks across the world, we are also ensuring that the Scotch Whisky industry has the global support it needs to capitalise on new and emerging markets. I saw this most recently in Brazil, where the success of Scotch whisky continues to be supported as a GREAT UK product”

Published 2 April 2013