International Trade and Export Policy for Distilled Spirits

Importance of Trade

Why Trade Matters to the U.S. Spirits Sector

The ability to export provides U.S. spirits producers access to adult consumers around the globe, thus supporting jobs in the U.S. agriculture, manufacturing, hospitality and logistics sectors in the U.S. economy as a whole.

The Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS) supports the efforts of the United States to open markets for U.S. spirits exports. Opening markets has helped U.S. distillers export to over 120 countries around the world, increasing from $242 million in 1989 to over $1.6 billion in 2021.

U.S. Spirits Exports Markets

Importance of Trade Agreements

Free Trade Agreements

The U.S. spirits sector has benefitted from the comprehensive and market opening trade agreements the United States has concluded, as well as efforts to ensure that U.S. spirits are treated fairly in foreign markets. Continuing to further liberalize trade with other trading partners will be key to the continued growth and long-term viability of the U.S. spirits sector.

Barriers to U.S. Spirits Exports

Foreign Trade Barriers Inhibit U.S. Spirits Sector’s Growth