Kentucky distillers welcome delay on doubling of EU whiskey tariffs

摘要

Frankfort, KY: - The historic Kentucky Distillers' Association has applauded the joint US and EU decision to delay the doubling of tariffs on Bourbon and American whiskey that were set to automatically increase June 1. "This is welcome news as distillers in Kentucky and across America were perilously close to a crippling blow on European exports," KDA President Eric Gregory said. "This gives both sides some breathing room to return to free and fair trade and once again level the playing field for Kentucky's signature spirit. "We deeply appreciate the leadership the Biden Administration, Congressmen John Yarmuth and Andy Barr, Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear and all global leaders who are working to resolve this ongoing trade dispute that has slashed exports and jeopardized the certainty of our largest overseas markets." Tariffs imposed on US spirits slashed Kentucky Bourbon exports by 35% in 2020, with shipments to the European Union plummeting by nearly 50%. Sales to the UK, formerly Kentucky's largest market in the EU, also have been decimated by 50%.