KDA Statement

on Delay of Bourbon Tariff Increase

FRANKFORT, Ky. – As the worldwide voice for Bourbon, the Kentucky Distillers’ Association and our 102 distilling and partner member companies welcome the news that the European Union will delay reimposing tariffs on American whiskey and other goods from the United States for another 15 months.

The retaliatory tariffs were set to double to 50% on January 1, 2024, which would have caused a devastating blow to our signature industry and the 22,500 hard-working Kentuckians it employs, as well as the countless wholesalers, retailers, and supply chain partners in E.U. countries that count on its future well-being.

As a reminder, the trade dispute that provoked these retaliatory tariffs has nothing to do with the Kentucky Bourbon or American whiskey industry. U.S. and E.U. spirits exporters had enjoyed duty-free access to each other’s markets for more than two decades, which had greatly benefited both spirits producers and consumers, and resulted in increased exports, jobs and consumer choice.

To that end, we strongly urge E.U. and U.S. officials to permanently end the tariffs sooner than later. Our signature industry has worked hard to recover and regain footing from the last short-term suspension of tariffs. As Bourbon takes years of aging to perfect, a permanent solution will bring certainty to our distillers as they look to continued growth and investments in international markets.

We appreciate and applaud the efforts of the Biden administration and Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear to secure the extended suspension of the tariffs. We look forward to the day when we can return to free and fair trade and our main business of making the world’s finest whiskey.

KDA President Eric Gregory

E.U. statement here

 Founded in 1880, the Kentucky Distillers’ Association (KDA) is the worldwide voice of Bourbon

About the Kentucky Distillers’ Association:

Founded in 1880, the Kentucky Distillers’ Association is the legendary voice for Kentucky’s signature Bourbon and distilled spirits industry. Its diverse and growing membership produces the overwhelming majority of the world’s Bourbon, from historic, global brands to emerging micro distilleries that are fostering the next generation of the Commonwealth’s landmark economic engine and its thriving, timeless craft. Member benefits include media relations, international trade development, private sampling events, technical assistance, economic development support, networking, legal defense, marketing strategies, governmental and regulatory advocacy and innovative tourism experiences through the KDA’s world-famous Kentucky Bourbon Trail® and Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour® adventures. A 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization, the KDA maintains an open membership policy, champions a strong commitment to the responsible and moderate consumption of spirits, and fights to curb underage drinking and drunk driving. Learn more at www.kybourbon.com and www.kybourbontrail.com.