Trump Ditches Tariff on Irish Whiskey Amid Martin's Diplomatic Push
Irish Premier Micheál Martin said he 'planted a seed' when he raised the issue of US tariffs on Irish whiskey with Donald Trump, which led to the surprise announcement that the tariffs would be removed.
During his two-day visit to Ireland, Trump made the announcement at the Amgen Irish Open golf tournament in Co Clare. The crowd cheered as he confirmed the removal of the 10% tariff on Irish whiskey sold into the US.
Martin had previously discussed the issue with Trump, explaining that Irish whiskey was being treated unfairly compared to Scotch whisky, which is exempt from tariffs due to its UK origin. Martin also mentioned visiting a distillery in Co Offaly, where he 'had to get the focus and concentrate the mind' on the issue.
The Irish Whiskey Association welcomed the announcement, stating that it would continue to work with EU and US counterparts to secure a return to the zero-for-zero arrangement for all drinks exports.