The American Whiskey Association (AWA) has said the US must help preserve “stable, predictable, and reciprocal trading relationships” with the EU and United Kingdom, including tariff-free access and protection against retaliatory trade measures affecting American whiskey.
These form part formal comments to the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR), which identif significant foreign trade barriers affecting American whiskey exports and urging the Administration to pursue fair, reciprocal, and predictable market access for U.S. producers.
In its submission for the 2027 National Trade Estimate Report on Foreign Trade Barriers, AWA identifies regulatory and commercial obstacles across 17 international markets that threaten the competitiveness of American whiskey, including bourbon, Tennessee whiskey, American rye, and American single malt.
The AWA said is a vital contributor to U.S. agriculture, manufacturing, and economic activity. In 2024, American whiskey accounted for 54% of total U.S. spirits exports by value, generating approximately $1.3 billion in export revenue, according to the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS).
“American whiskey is more than a product. It’s an enduring symbol of American craftsmanship, agriculture, and ingenuity,” said Michael Bilello, president and CEO of the American Whiskey Association.
“But even the finest American products cannot compete globally without fair and predictable market access. We must continue eliminating unnecessary tariffs, discriminatory regulations, and other trade barriers that disadvantage American producers and undermine our export potential.”
Bilello added that the success of American whiskey is closely tied to global trade stability with each barrel exported supporting a broader American supply chain.
“When American whiskey gains access to international markets, the economic benefits extend well beyond the distillery,” he added.
The Association also emphasized the importance of continued coordination with allied trade organizations, including the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS) and the American Distilled Spirits Alliance (ADSA), as well as member companies and international partners working to advance fair and reciprocal trade.
AWA said its submission reflects the Association’s broader mission to lead, protect, and promote American whiskey while expanding international market access for producers of every size.
