News in Moray: Record-breaking year for Scotch whisky exports
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Global exports of Scotch Whisky grew to more than £6billion for the first time in 2022.
According to figures released today by the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA) the value of exports was up 37% to £6.2bn.
The number of 70cl bottles exported also grew by 21% to the equivalent of 1.67billion.
In addtion, the Asia-Pacific region overtook the EU as the industry’s largest regional market.
Double-digit growth was reported in Taiwan, Singapore, India and China.
India replaced France as the largest market by volume.
Meanwhile, SWA analysis claims that a UK-India FTA deal which eases the 150% tariff burden could produce for an additional £1billion of growth over the next five years.
The United States market also continued its recovery following the removal of tariffs to again be the industry’s only market with exports valued over £1billion.
Commenting on the figures, Mark Kent, the SWA's chief executive said: "During a year of significant economic headwinds and global supply chain disruption, the Scotch whisky industry continued to be an anchor of growth, supporting investment and job creation across Scotland and the UK.
"The enduring strength of Scotch whisky as the UK’s leading food and drink export is its global appeal to consumers who recognise the quality of the spirit, with production increasingly grounded in sustainable practices as we continue to reduce our impact on the environment by investing in the future.
"Passing £6billon is a milestone, and testament to the work of our member companies and their tens of thousands of employees who make Scotch whisky a global success story of which we are rightly proud.
"With the right support from our home governments, we remain confident that the industry can continue to deliver.
"We look forward to collaborating with government and regulators on initiatives including sustainability and responsible drinking, alongside our work to further boost exports, creating jobs and investment in communities across the country.
"By reducing tariffs through the UK-India free trade agreement, continuing the duty freeze in the March budget, and ensuring the industry’s continued ability to advertise our world-class product in our home market, the Scottish and UK governments can count on the industry to reinvest its success across the UK."
Responding to today's announcement from the SWA, Moray’s MSP Richard Lochhead said: "The whisky industry really is Scotland’s biggest global success story and it is incredible to see exports breaking records and growing to over £6 billion.
"Over half of Scotland’s whisky is distilled here in Speyside, with plans for significant investment and expansion planned in the area.
"The local workforce really are the engine of our country’s biggest international economic success.
"Our iconic whisky industry continues to go from strength to strength.
"As it plays such a big role in Moray’s economy, this increase in global exports is a real boost for the region."
