The SNP warns that Trump’s proposed whisky tariffs could severely hurt Scottish exports, but they remain hopeful the penalties won’t be enforced.
Edinburgh: A senior member of the SNP government is sounding the alarm. They say that if Trump goes ahead with whisky tariffs, it could be a disaster. Finance Secretary Shona Robison is trying to stay positive, though. She believes these penalties might not actually happen.
Trump just started his second term, and folks are worried. He’s hinted at imposing tariffs on foreign goods to help US businesses. This has the whisky industry on edge. They think these tariffs would make it tough to sell Scotch in the huge US market.
First Minister John Swinney recently had a chat with Trump. Robison has been vocal about opposing these tariffs. She told ITV Border that they could be “catastrophic.” But she’s also optimistic, saying they’re in touch with the industry and hope for the best.
A Labour Minister in the Treasury echoed these concerns. He mentioned that they need to see what Trump’s administration decides. But he also noted that Trump is known for wanting to strike good deals. The UK and US have strong ties, no matter who’s in charge.