Massive rise in imports of Scotch whisky

Imports of Scotch whisky to South Africa soared 44% in the first six months of this year.

This staggering figure released this week by the Scotch Whisky Association suggests that importers are taking advantage of the strong rand to prepare for growth in consumption in South Africa.

South Africa is already the fifth biggest export market for Scotch whisky by volume and eighth by value.

Nine out of Scotch whisky’s top 10 export markets grew in value over the first six months of

2010, the SWA says. Some of its most senior executives, including Campbell Evan and Glen Barclay, are currently visiting South Africa to meet the trade and spread the word about the work the association does to protect and enhance the global image of Scotch whisky.

Global shipments between January-June 2010 were valued at 1.47bn, up 17% on the first half of 2009, as Scotch whisky showed the way towards export-led economic recovery.

Among the top 10 markets, shipments to countries such as South Africa (+44%), the USA (+34%) and France (+6%) increased in value. Tough economic conditions in Greece, however, resulted in lower exports (-9%).

Single malt Scotch whisky exports rose by 31% (to 242m), with blended Scotch whisky shipments also up 9% (to 1.1bn), compared to the first half of 2009.

New figures revealed for the first time the strength of blended malt Scotch whisky exports, which were valued at 57m.

The global volume of Scotch whisky shipments rose by 3%, with the equivalent of 477-million bottles exported.

Gavin Hewitt, SWA chief executive, said: “Scotch Whisky distillers continue quietly and consistently to deliver impressive exports in many markets.

“The industry welcomes the UK Coalition Government’s commitment to support exports. With a Trade White Paper being developed, fair market access for Scotch whisky must be a priority.

“We also look to the UK Government to create a domestic business environment which supports exporters. Bold reform is needed at home to introduce a fair and socially responsible UK excise duty system, which also secures revenue to address the deficit.

“Taxing all alcohol on the same basis according to alcohol content would achieve these objectives. It would send out an important message to administrations in our export markets which would support Scotch whisky’s global competitiveness.”