Scotch Whisky defies downturn

Global exports of Scotch Whisky reached the record level of 3.13 billion pounds in 2009, despite the economic downturn in some major markets, The Scotch Whisky Association said on Thursday.

Scotch Whisky exports rose by 3 per cent in value to 3.13 billion pounds, contributing 99 pounds every second to the UK trade balance, according to annual figures published by The Scotch Whisky Association. SWA is trade association for the Scotch Whisky industry.

Its members account for more than 95 per cent of production and sales of Scotch Whisky. According to the association, export volumes increased by 4 per cent worldwide, with the equivalent of 1.1 billion 70cl bottles of Scotch Whisky shipped.

After a slow start to the year caused by trade de-stocking and weaker consumer confidence, the SWA reported an impressive export performance in the second half of 2009.

"Scotch Whisky distillers have delivered record exports in the face of a global economic downturn. It is an impressive performance, underscoring the importance of Scotch Whisky to the UK economy," SWA Chairman Paul Walsh said in a statement. The US remained Scotch Whisky's largest export market by value (13 per cent rise to 419 million pounds), with Blended Scotch Whisky shipments particularly strong, the association added.