A recent report from the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA) reveals that the Scotch whisky industry made a substantial contribution of £7.1 billion to the UK economy in 2022.
The gross value added (GVA) of whisky experienced a notable 29% increase since 2018, reaching a total worth of £5.3 billion for Scotland alone, accounting for approximately 3% of the country's total GVA.
The report underscores the industry's resilience over the past turbulent five years, marked by challenges such as retaliatory tariffs in the United States and the global pandemic.
Mark Kent, CEO of the SWA, emphasized the economic significance of the sector and urged government support for continued investments in the UK economy.
Scotch whisky, comprising 77% of Scotland's food and drink exports and 26% for the UK overall, plays a pivotal role in international trade.
Scottish Secretary Alister Jack praised the sector's "vital importance" to Scotland, highlighting the UK government's consistent support, including duty cuts and the removal of punitive tariffs.
With 66,000 jobs supported across the UK, including 41,000 in Scotland, the industry has seen the creation of 24,000 jobs over the past decade.
The report emphasizes Scotch whisky's global reputation and its position as a leading single food and drink export product.
Scotland's Wellbeing Economy Secretary Neil Gray expressed the industry's value, stressing the Scottish Government's commitment to collaborating with the whisky sector for continued growth and success.
As the industry faces a dynamic landscape, the SWA report urges government support to ensure sustained economic contributions.
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