US Spirits in East Asia: Discus Targets Japan & Taiwan

Deepening Trade Ties: Discus Leads 18 Distilleries to Expand in East Asia

The Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (Discus) launched an East Asian trade mission in June, leading eighteen American distilleries to visit Tokyo and Taiwan. This mission aims to promote American craft spirits and deepen trade connections. Japan is currently the seventh-largest global market for US spirits and the fourth-largest for whiskey; meanwhile, Taiwan has shown strong growth momentum, making both markets strategic priorities for US spirits export expansion.

This mission is part of the "Discover US Spirits" campaign, supported by the USDA Market Access Program. Discus held multiple spirit tastings and media events in Tokyo and Taiwan, featuring brands such as Westland, Middle West Spirits, Garrison Brothers, Uncle Nearest, Virginia Distillery Co, and New Riff Distilling, attracting over 200 trade buyers, media, and industry professionals.

Building a Long-term Foundation: Meeting Demand for High-Quality Spirits

Joel Matticks, Discus Export Promotion Manager, noted that Japan and Taiwan are high-potential growth markets. By building a long-term trade foundation, the council aims to meet local adult consumers' demand for high-quality spirits. Under current global economic pressures, strengthening overseas export layouts has become a vital strategy for the US spirits industry.

With USDA funding supporting future promotion plans, the council will continue to collaborate with local partners to maintain fair spirit trade, create more opportunities for producers, and allow consumers to enjoy a wider variety of premium American Whiskey and spirits.

📅 Published Date: 2026-06-17

🔗 Source: https://www.thespiritsbusiness.com/2026/06/discus-eyes-east-asia-as-spirits-exports-near-80m/