American Whiskey Association Calls for Removal of Trade Barriers
The battle against global tariffs continues for the U.S. distilling industry.
The American Whiskey Association (AWA) has submitted comments to the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) identifying trade barriers affecting American whiskey exports across 17 international markets.
The submission, prepared for the 2027 National Trade Estimate Report on Foreign Trade Barriers, calls on the U.S. government to pursue changes to tariffs, regulations and market access policies affecting bourbon, Tennessee whiskey, American rye and American single malt.
According to the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS), American whiskey accounted for 54% of total U.S. spirits exports by value in 2024, generating approximately $1.3 billion in export revenue.
“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.”
The AWA identified several areas where it wants USTR to pursue changes.
In the European Union and United Kingdom, the association is seeking continued tariff-free access and protection against retaliatory trade measures. It also cited advertising and marketing restrictions, excise tax policies and other regulations it says affect competition.
In India, the AWA is calling for tariff reductions and improved access for American whiskey, including bulk shipments. The association also identified regulatory uncertainty and what it described as discriminatory treatment.
In Canada, the AWA wants the restoration of access to provincial retail markets where American spirits face restrictions.
Across markets in Asia and Latin America, the association is seeking greater recognition and protection for American whiskey categories. It also wants changes to labeling, certification, customs and regulatory requirements.
The submission further calls for greater transparency and consistency in international trade regulations and enforcement.
“The success of American whiskey is closely tied to global trade stability,” Bilello said. “Every barrel we export supports a broader American supply chain, from grain farmers and cooperages to distillers, manufacturers, and logistics providers. When American whiskey gains access to international markets, the economic benefits extend well beyond the distillery.”
The association also cited coordination with trade organizations, including DISCUS and the American Distilled Spirits Alliance (ADSA), as part of its efforts to address international trade barriers.
“American whiskey producers are ready to compete anywhere in the world,” Bilello added. “Our job is to help ensure they have that opportunity. By removing trade barriers and establishing predictable market conditions, we can strengthen American manufacturing, support jobs, and create new opportunities for our producers and the communities they represent.”
The AWA said the submission supports its mission to expand international market access for American whiskey producers.
Feature photo by Matt Hoffman on Unsplash.
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