- Exports by value increase 3.7% in 2024, totalling EUR954m (US$1.1bn)
- Volumes for the 12-month period rise 6.3% to 16.2m nine-litre cases
Sales of Irish whiskey reached a global high last year as the full force of tariffs on the category in its biggest export market is expected to impact 2025, according to recent figures.
The Irish Whiskey Association released data this week showing that 16.2m cases of Irish whiskey were sold in 2024, a new record for the category. The report, compiled with figures from IWSR and Bord Bia, noted that exports by value grew 3.7% to EUR954m (US$1.1bn), driven by strong gains in emerging markets such as India, which posted year-on-year growth of 57%.
The current year, however, has brought a direct challenge in the form of a 15% US tariff on Irish whiskey – the first break in the ‘zero-for-zero’ spirits arrangement between the two countries since 1997. According to the data, Irish whiskey exports to the US, the category’s largest market, experienced a slight downturn even before the full impact of tariffs has yet to be felt. At one point in 2024, almost 90% of distilling on the island was paused due to uncertainty and rising pressures on producers.
Looking at regional performances, Central and Eastern Europe sustained strong growth: Poland and Germany each exceeded 700,000 cases, making them the two biggest EU markets, while France and Bulgaria contributed further volume gains.
Africa and Asia, meanwhile, provided additional headroom. South Africa cemented its status as one of the top ten Irish whiskey destinations (8th), buoyed by the success of leading brands. Nigeria rebounded sharply last year as its currency conditions improved, supporting renewed importer confidence. In Asia, Japan maintained steady year-on-year growth, with the category benefiting from the popularity of the ‘Highball’ serve and an increased appetite among consumers for cocktails. Singapore and China remained smaller – but steadily advancing – markets.
“Our sector, like many others, has weathered a turbulent trading period this year, but we hope that calmer waters are on the horizon,” said Irish Whiskey Association director Eoin Ó Catháin. “The numbers from 2024 are promising for our sector with the biggest sales volume ever, and our market position in new and emerging markets is getting stronger.”
He added: “The association’s priorities for 2026 will include advocating for the finalisation and swift implementation of relevant trade agreements, including an EU-India Free Trade Agreement (FTA), considering that India is the world’s biggest whiskey market and represents a significant growth opportunity for Irish whiskey.”
Earlier this year, The Scotch Whisky Association revealed that total shipments of scotch in the 12 months of 2024 saw a near-4% rise in volumes, while a decline of the same percentage was recorded in value over the same period.
