Irish Whiskey exports to the EU up by more than 21%
- Spirits find new markets in Europe while US tariffs continue to impact global trade
Irish Whiskey export volumes to the EU26 have risen by 21.5% over the last four years, with the EU single market now a key destination for the Irish Whiskey sector. While this is spurred on by consistently strong performances in traditional markets such as Germany and Poland, Irish Whiskey is swiftly establishing itself as an export powerhouse in newer markets.
Export volumes to Greece and Italy have risen 88% and 68% respectively over the last four years, while export value to Bulgaria is up 54% over the same period, signalling a fast-growing appetite for Irish spirits in markets beyond the category's strongholds.
The figures were announced by the Irish Whiskey Association (IWA) following a recent showcase of Irish spirits in Galway to mark the Irish Presidency of the European Council.
This surge in emerging European markets complements the category's robust performance in its established core markets. Irish spirits remain a key driver of European export success, representing one-third of all EU spirit exports. Within Europe, Irish Whiskey’s largest export markets continue to be Germany, Poland and France, accounting for a combined export value of €97.2m, alongside significant 2025 year-on-year growth in Irish Cream exports to France (+32%) and Germany (+19%).
This strong European footprint and continued expansion have been achieved despite the drinks industry navigating significant tariff and non-tariff global trade complications. To ensure continued growth amidst these headwinds, the IWA and Drinks Ireland have reaffirmed their commitment to working alongside Government departments to champion Irish drinks and their vital contribution to the country’s wider agri-food economy and tourism sector.
This was the focus of a recent event in Galway on July 16th marking the Irish Presidency of the Council of the European Union. Industry representatives and EU dignitaries were in attendance to sample some of Ireland’s spirits, including Clonakilty Irish Whiskey, Dingle Irish Whiskey, Power's Irish Whiskey and Five Farms Irish Cream, promote our Geographical Indications (GIs) and to celebrate the country’s rich distilling heritage.
Following this event, Director of the Irish Whiskey Association Eoin Ó Catháin noted: “We are seeing a shift in how European consumers engage with premium spirits. To maintain this momentum, a supportive policy environment is absolutely crucial. We encourage our governments and representatives in the European Union to continue their efforts to harmonise and strengthen the single market. This support at home at this critical juncture will give our producers the confidence and backing to continue expanding our global footprint.”
A core focus for the sector during the Irish Presidency of the European Council is the promotion and protection of Ireland’s three European spirits Geographical Indications (GIs): Irish Whiskey, Irish Cream and Irish Poitín. This protected status is vital, ensuring that the production of these spirits remains authentically Irish, which in turn helps safeguard local jobs and drives continued investment across the island. For global consumers, this recognition guarantees confidence in their provenance and quality.
To continue elevating the status of Irish spirits, the IWA will continue to promote these GIs throughout the six-month Irish Presidency of the European Council. Through this ongoing initiative, the IWA will actively promote Ireland’s unique distilling heritage, as well as regional food and drink trails that support local tourism, such as the Irish Whiskey Way.
