Trump Lifts Tariffs on Irish Whiskey Amid Pressure from Politicians and Golfers
At the close of an Irish golf tournament on Sunday, US President Donald Trump announced that he plans to remove a 10% tariff on Irish whiskey. The decision came after several high-profile requests from various parties, including Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin and even some of the golfers.
'Everybody's been bugging me' about this issue, Trump said during the trophy ceremony for the Irish Open, where winner Shane Lowry was among those who expressed their support for lifting the tariffs. The 10% tariff has been in place since July, when it was reduced from 15% as part of a standard EU import duty imposed by Trump.
The move is seen as a positive step towards reducing barriers to spirits trade and will likely benefit US hospitality businesses during the coming holidays. Chris Swonger, president & CEO of the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States, welcomed the decision, saying 'this action will provide a welcome boost for retailers, restaurants, consumers and the American economy.'