Scottish Whisky Industry Global Exports Reach £5.4 Billion in 2024, Equivalent to 44 Bottles Per Second.

In 2024, the global export value of Scottish whisky reached £5.4 billion, equivalent to approximately 1.4 billion bottles of 70cl whisky, or about 44 bottles exported every second. Although the total export value decreased by 3.7% compared to 2023, the export volume increased by 3.9%, reflecting changes in global consumer preferences and the trading environment.

According to data from the Scotch Whisky Association, India has once again surpassed France to become the largest market by export volume, exporting a total of 192 million bottles last year; meanwhile, the United States remains the largest export market by value, with an export value of £971 million in 2024. Amidst the turbulent international trade climate and pressure on domestic consumption, the industry warns that these challenges may continue to impact export performance in 2025.

The Scotch Whisky Association is calling for further support from the UK and Scottish governments for the industry. The sector has pointed out that domestic consumers are facing a 14% increase in the tax rate on a single bottle of whisky over the past 18 months, alongside rising costs of raw materials, energy, and transportation, as well as the upcoming implementation of the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) policy, all of which have further pushed up the final retail prices and heavily impacted the market. The industry suggests that the government considers reducing the alcohol consumption tax (currently making up 70% of the average price), re-evaluates the financial impact of the EPR policy, and accelerates free trade agreement negotiations with major markets like India to reduce tariffs and eliminate market entry barriers.

13 February 2025

Source: https://www.thewhiskybusiness.com/2025/02/scotch-whisky-industry-records-54bn.html