Scotland targets U.S. growth for whisky and premium food exports

Scotland has published a sector report for food and drink as part of its U.S. export plan, outlining opportunities for exporters and underscoring the importance of the American market for premium Scottish products, including whisky, seafood and consumer foods.

The Scottish government said food and drink is one of the country’s largest manufacturing sectors and a major contributor to exports. It said the industry benefits from Scotland’s natural resources and from a reputation for quality and provenance that continues to support demand at home and abroad.

In the report, officials describe the United States as one of the world’s largest food and drink markets and a priority destination for Scottish exporters. The document says there is significant room for growth in the U.S., particularly for premium categories where Scottish producers already have strong recognition.

The report is intended to give businesses a market overview, identify opportunities and challenges, and set out actions aimed at helping Scottish companies expand sales in the United States.

For beverage producers, the plan matters because it offers guidance for companies trying to build or protect their position in a market that is central to Scotch whisky and other premium drinks. It also comes as tariff-related disruption remains an important reference point for exporters assessing U.S. strategy. Monitor notes tied to the publication said whisky exports to the United States had fallen 15% after tariffs were imposed, a reminder of how trade policy can quickly affect sales in one of the sector’s most important overseas markets.