Although Donald Trump’s inauguration is still almost two weeks away, his influence is already being felt beyond the United States – including here in Scotland, in terms of potential policy changes.

A cornerstone of President Trump's presidency was his "America First" economic policies, marked by strict trade measures and sweeping tariffs on foreign imports.

These policies impacted industries closer to home. During Trump’s tenure, a 25% tariff on Scotch whisky – imposed amid a transatlantic trade dispute – caused significant financial harm, resulting in £600 million in lost exports, or roughly £1 million per day. These tariffs are currently suspended, but their potential reinstatement under a new US administration poses a serious threat to the Scotch whisky industry. Scotch whisky producers must prepare now for the possibility of renewed trade barriers that could again disrupt operations and undermine financial stability.

Scotch whisky sellers operate within a complex........

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