US Whiskey Exports to EU Plunge 35% in 2025 Amid Tariffs

Trade Uncertainty Hits EU Market, US Whiskey Share Hits Record Low

According to the latest "2025 American Spirits Exports Report" by the Distilled Spirits Council of the US (Discus), total US spirits exports fell 3.8% last year. As the backbone of the export market, American whiskey exports plummeted 19%, with its share of total exports dropping below 50% for the first time to 45%—the lowest level recorded since 1996. This significant decline was primarily driven by weak demand in the Europe market, where American whiskey imports fell by 35%, indicating shrinking demand from traditional core trading partners.

Canada and Japan Markets Slump, New Categories Grow

The report further noted that escalating trade tensions with Canada led to strict spirits restrictions, causing total US spirits exports to that country to crash by over 70%. Meanwhile, whiskey exports to Japan also contracted by 28%. However, excluding regions heavily impacted by tariffs and specific policies, US spirits grew by a slight 2% in other overseas markets, with whiskey exports in non-core markets rising by 13%. Additionally, categories such as Liqueurs and Brandy recorded strong growth of 38% and 57%, respectively, serving as market highlights.

Part of the export decline is attributed to distilleries front-loading shipments in late 2024 in anticipation of retaliatory tariffs in 2025, which exhausted subsequent trade volumes. Although the EU's threat of a 30% tariff has been delayed for a second time until August 2026, the persistent uncertainty continues to unsettle the market. Discus President and CEO Chris Swonger emphasized that the export data reflects global trade volatility. Coupled with slowing domestic sales and record-high inventory, the industry urgently needs a stable zero-tariff environment to ensure sustainable growth.

Focusing on New Markets and Zero-Tariff Frameworks

In terms of regional performance, Kentucky and Tennessee remain the primary exporting states. Discus stated that future efforts will focus on consolidating trade frameworks with Mexico and Canada, while seeking new agreements with high-tariff countries such as India, Brazil, and Vietnam. With domestic sales facing challenges, active overseas expansion has become the key path for continued growth in the US spirits industry. The success of this global trade strategy will directly impact whether American whiskey can reclaim its position on retail shelves worldwide and drive local economic development under a fair competitive environment.

📅 Publish Date: 2026-04-01

🔗 Source: https://www.thespiritsbusiness.com/2026/04/us-whiskey-exports-to-eu-plunge-35-in-2025/