BRAZIL has granted special protected status to Scotch whisky, in a move which is expected to give distillers better access to South America’s largest economy.
The decision to grant legal recognition of Scotch whisky’s special status was finalised in June during the UK’s pre-election period, meaning ministers had to exercise caution in making announcements which might affect the election campaign.
It means Scotch whisky now has a Geographical Indication in Brazil, making it easier to tackle counterfeits and giving distillers the confidence to increase their exports to the country.
The Department of Business and Trade said the move could be worth around £25 million over five years.
Exports of UK products with a Geographical Indication are estimated to be worth more than £6 billion per year.
Scotch exports alone were worth £5.6bn in 2023, accounting for 74% of Scottish food and drink exports and 22% of all UK food and drink exports.
Mark Kent, chief executive at the Scotch Whisky Association, said: “As the first foreign product to be granted Denomination of Origin status in Brazil since 2019, Scotch whisky now sits beside Tequila, Cognac and Champagne with special legal protection.
“This is fundamental to ensure that millions of Brazilians can have confidence in the quality and history of what they’re buying.”
The UK Government’s Trade Secretary, Jonathan Reynolds, visited Glengoyne Distillery near Glasgow to celebrate the decision on Wednesday.
Reynolds (below) said: “Scotch whisky is one of Scotland’s finest products and is in high demand across the globe.
“This Government is committed to maximising Scotland’s potential, and today’s announcement gives Scottish distillers the confidence they need to export to one of the world’s largest economies without having to compete with fake knock-offs and pale imitations.
“Businesses who export more are better off, and removing trade barriers like this will unlock more global markets and drive economic growth across the UK.”
