Union warning over Trump’s 'jobs killer' whisky tariffs
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A leading union has warned that the tariff war hitting whisky will ultimately be a "jobs killer" on both sides of the Atlantic.
The GMB states it has contacted the Office of the United States Trade Representative to voice its concerns.
GMB Scotland Organiser Keir Greenaway said: "On both sides of the Atlantic this tariff war will strangle hopes for economic recovery.
"Dire consequences for manufacturing in Scotland will be mirrored in the US retail and hospitality sectors, and in warehouse operations across its own drinks industry.
"These tariffs are a jobs killer – no one wins."
Donald Trump's government imposed a raft tariffs in October, stating they were in retaliation for the EU's illegal subsidising of Airbus.
According to the Scotch Whisky Association the 25 per cent tariff on single malt imports to the US has resulted in a 30 per cent drop in exports.
This represents losses of around £30 million a month to the industry.
With the potential threat of further tariffs being imposed on whisky blends and white spirits, GMB Scotland is urging UK Government Ministers to intervene.
Ms Greenaway added: "Our members can’t afford to wait for Boris Johnson to phone a friend or let the chips fall where they may in future trade negotiations.
"Today we can measure the impact on sales and profits but without intervention that could quickly turn to jobs and communities.
"It seems the UK Government thinks this is some kind of idyllic tartan-dressed industry to be taken for granted when nothing could be further from the truth.
"Ministers need to get in the game because this is a real jobs powerhouse supporting tens of thousands of livelihoods.
"Scotland cannot do without a thriving whisky and spirits sector.
"If it’s to support our post-Covid recovery and post-Brexit future then we need to stand up to Trump and end these tariffs.
"If the UK Government isn’t prepared to do this then we’ll do it ourselves."
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