Irish Whiskey Association publishes Global Trade Report
The domestic market recorded over 700,000 case sales last year, making Ireland the fourth largest market overall for this premium Irish spirit.
The USA remains the biggest market for Irish Whiskey, with over close to 5.5 million cases sold in this market in 2024 – representing 1 of every 3 bottles of Irish Whiskey sold
in the world.
The USA is the most valuable market for spirits in the world, although EU spirits exports (including Irish whiskey) now attract a 10% import tariff. Persistent uncertainty remains around the trading environment with the USA, with Bord Bia figures showing that this tariff had an impact on exports since its introduction last year. However, the Irish Whiskey Association notes that the full impact of these tariffs on the category in its biggest export market is not yet known.
The Irish Whiskey Association therefore reiterates its call to prioritise a return to the zero-for-zero trading arrangement with the USA.
Irish Whiskey is growing rapidly in other markets. As reported in the Irish Whiskey Global Trade Report, significant growth is evident in key emerging markets such as Japan and India, up 124% and 120% respectively over the past three years.
The Irish Whiskey category has also enjoyed increased success throughout the European Union. Of the top 20 markets for Irish Whiskey sales, 10 are EU Member States.
Looking towards next year, the Irish Whiskey Association notes the importance of the EU-US trading relationship and market diversification.
Director of the Irish Whiskey Association, Eoin Ó Catháin noted:
“Our sector, like many others, has weathered a turbulent trading period this year, but we hope that calmer waters are on the horizon. The numbers from 2024 are promising for our sector with the biggest sales volume ever, and our market position in new and emerging markets is getting stronger.
Despite challenges, there is still significant opportunity for the Irish whiskey category to grow, given it only accounts for 12% of the global whiskey market.
Key to ensuring the category’s continued success and growth trajectory is an urgent focus on trade relations with the US and the opening up of new markets through the
removal of tariff and non-tariff barriers.
The Association’s priorities for 2026 will therefore include advocating for the finalisation and swift implementation of relevant trade agreements, including an EU-India Free
Trade Agreement (FTA), considering that India is the world’s biggest whiskey market and represents a significant growth opportunity for Irish Whiskey.”
NOTES
- This Trade Report is compiled with industry and Bord Bia data.
- A case of Irish Whiskey contains 9 litres, generally 12 bottles (75cl).
