US President Donald Trump has announced the immediate removal of tariffs on Irish whiskey, bringing an end to a 15% charge that had been imposed on EU goods entering the United States. The surprise announcement came during the prizegiving ceremony at the Amgen Irish Open, held on the 18th green of the President’s own golf course in Doonbeg, Co Clare.
Addressing a cheering crowd that broke into chants of “USA,” Trump revealed that the decision followed high-level discussions with Taoiseach Micheál Martin.
“Everybody’s been bugging me. They are saying would you do me a favour? It’s so unfair what’s going on,” Trump told spectators as he presented the trophy to tournament winner Shane Lowry. “Could you possibly take the tariffs off of Irish whiskey? And I said, on behalf of the United States of America, I am going to take the tariffs off Irish whiskey.”
The move marks a significant shift for the spirits industry. While tariffs are technically paid by domestic importers rather than foreign exporters, the 15% levy had placed considerable strain on the competitive landscape for Irish products. The US market for Irish whiskey is currently dominated by Jameson, which commands an estimated 70% share of the industry. Industry analysts suggest the removal of the tax will significantly bolster the competitive standing of Irish distillers in the US.
This decision follows a similar policy shift earlier this year, when the President eliminated tariffs on whiskey produced in Northern Ireland following a state visit where he met with the King and Queen.
The announcement capped off a whirlwind two-day visit to Ireland that was characterized by both trade policy shifts and bold geopolitical commentary. During his stay, Trump sparked debate by reiterating his desire to see a united Ireland. When asked about his remarks, he remained firm, stating, “It’s going to happen eventually.”
He elaborated on his position, telling reporters: “I have always loved the people of Ireland and it just seems to me that you have Northern Ireland and you have Ireland and it would seem to me that one of the naturals of all time is to put them together.”
When confronted with comments from UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham—who suggested that no border poll would take place until a clear majority in Northern Ireland favored it—Trump remained dismissive of the political hurdles. “Everybody says that and then things happen,” he said.
The President departed for the United States shortly after the trophy presentation at the Doonbeg resort, leaving behind a major economic win for Irish exporters and further fueling discussions regarding his views on Northern Ireland’s future.
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