Single malt exports UP as value of Scotch whisky boosted to £1.8 billion
DEMAND for single malts boosted the value of Scotch whisky exports 3.4 per cent to £1.8 billion in the first half of the year.
America is Scotch whisky's largest export market
But bottles sent overseas fell 2 per cent to 528 million.
Exports to America, the largest market, rose 8.6 per cent to £388 million, with single malts up 14 per cent to £123 million.
China growth was 45 per cent to £27 million and Japan 19 per cent to £43 million.
The Scotch Whisky Association called for a cut in the 80 per cent tax on its product.
Brexit will bring changes to the Scotch whisky industry, said Karen Betts
Karen Betts, who became chief executive of the SWA earlier this year, said: "More and more consumers around the world are seeking out the fabulous range of single malts.
"It is good to see demand for Scotch increasing in a diverse range of mature and emerging markets around the world.
"But the figures mask more concerning underlying trends.
"The value of exports is up but the volume is down.
"With the changes Brexit will bring to the way the industry operates and trades, we need the support of the UK government at home and overseas if we are to grasp the opportunities and keep this international success story going."