Donald Trump has said the US will scrap tariffs and restrictions on whisky imports, in a move hailed as a “significant boost” for the Scotch whisky industry.

The president said the decision was made “in honour” of King Charles and Queen Camilla, following their visit to the White House.

Posting on Truth Social, Trump wrote: “In Honor of the King and Queen of the United Kingdom, who have just left the White House, soon headed back to their wonderful Country, I will be removing the Tariffs and Restrictions on Whiskey having to do with Scotland’s ability to work with the Commonwealth of Kentucky on Whiskey and Bourbon.”

He added: “The King and Queen got me to do something nobody else was able to do, without hardly even asking!”

The UK and US signed a trade deal last year that allowed Washington to impose a 10 per cent baseline tariff on imports of most British goods, including whisky.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer negotiated the agreement with Trump last May, bringing the rate down from the 27.5 per cent level initially announced by the US president. However, the 10 per cent charge remained in place for most goods.

The Scotch whisky sector has come under pressure from higher levies and falling alcohol consumption. The Scotch Whisky Association has estimated the tariffs have cost the industry £4m a week.

On Thursday, the trade body welcomed Trump’s announcement, calling it “a significant boost” for distillers.

“Distillers can breathe a little easier during a period of significant pressure on the sector,” the SWA said.

Trump described whisky and bourbon as “two very important Industries within Scotland and Kentucky”, pointing to historic trade links between the two markets, particularly around the wooden barrels used in production.

The decision will come as a welcome relief to major spirits producers, including Diageo, which owns brands such as Johnnie Walker, Talisker and Lagavulin.

Last year, the drinks giant said it would reduce production at some of its distilleries as it looked to balance lower demand across the market.

The announcement follows King Charles’s state visit to the US, during which the monarch received a warm welcome from the White House and Congress.

In a speech before Congress, the King made a veiled appeal for the US to return to its traditional alliances, describing the relationship between Britain and America as “truly unique”.

“America’s words carry weight and meaning, as they have since independence. The actions of this great nation matter even more,” he said.

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