Which countries export and import the most whisky?
Whisky has been enjoyed for hundreds of years and with the rise of globalisation came the spreading of demand for the spirit around the world. Now there are millions around the globe who enjoy the drink, and this has led to the rapid growth of the whisky industry in Scotland and a rise in the wider whiskey producing countries, including the USA and Japan.
Here we take a look at the biggest exporters and importers of whisky from the UN Comtrade database, analysing the trends and honing in on some of the biggest producers and consumers of this popular spirit (and an increasingly popular asset class).
Top 10 Whisky exporting countries
1. Scotland (United Kingdom)
Whisky exports 2023: $7,161,426,507
Scotland (and as a result, the United Kingdom) is the biggest producer of whisky in the world, and has been for at least 100 years.
But while Scotland is synonymous with whisky, it isn't the only country to produce it. Others, such as the USA, Ireland and Japan, also have long, proud traditions of whisky-making. And the last twenty years have seen the return of whisky distilling to England and Wales for the first time in a century, while new distilleries have also been built in South Africa, Australia, Taiwan, Spain and Sweden, among others.
There are two main types of Scotch whisky: single malt and blended. Single malt has established itself as a major category not just at the premium end, accounting for 10% of global sales of Scotch by volume. But most Scotch whisky sold worldwide is blended. Made from a mixture of several different malt and grain whiskies, the biggest brands of blended Scotch, such as Johnnie Walker, Ballantines, Chivas, Grants & Dewars, are household names across the globe.
2. USA
Whisky exports 2023: $1,530,343,731
Jack Daniels and Jim Beam are the two most famous American whiskies: one a Tennessee whiskey, the other a bourbon. Together they account for over 30 million cases, with keen competition between both brands. The stand-out feature of American whiskey is the strong, sweet vanilla flavour derived from the obligatory maturation in new oak casks. While coke is the most popular mixer for American whiskey, the premium end of the category is developing well, and brands in this space, such as Maker’s Mark and Woodford Reserve, are appreciated neat or in traditional whiskey cocktails (Manhattan, Old Fashioned and Whiskey Sour being the most popular).
Barley, rye, wheat and maize are the cereals used most in American distilling.
The category has also had success in the ready-to-drink market, with around 11 million cases of Jack Daniels RTD brands produced in FY2024.
3. Singapore
Whisky exports 2023: $1,007,537,067
When it comes to exporting whisky, few can match Singapore. Whilst not up there when it comes to the actual consumption of the whisky, Singapore acts as a major re-export hub thanks to the Free Trade Zones (FTZs) within the country.
According to the Singapore Customs site, “Duty and GST are suspended for goods stored within the FTZ, and are only payable when the goods: Are consumed within the FTZ; or Leave the FTZ and brought into customs territory for local consumption”.
This makes them one of the major hubs when it comes to the journey of the whisky from the origin country to Asia. Whisky is however one of the most widely consumed spirits amongst Singaporeans alongside cognac and vodka.
4. Republic of Ireland
Whisky exports 2023: $1,001,335,830
Irish whiskey is the fastest-growing of the main whisk(e)y-producing regions, selling 15.6 million cases in 2023 according to the Irish Spirits Market Report by Drinks Ireland. This compares to around 7 million cases in 2018, so sales are growing fast. It’s mostly about one brand, Jameson, which sells approximately 10m cases, almost two thirds of the total Irish whiskey sales.
Most Irish whiskey is distilled three times, while most (but not all) Scotch whisky is distilled twice. The use of peat is rare in the malting process, which means that Irish whiskey has a smoother finish as opposed to the smoky, earthy overtones common to some Scotches. There are, of course, notable exceptions to these rules in both countries.
Irish whiskey was once the most popular spirit in the world, and some say Ireland was the birthplace of whiskey. Unfortunately, a long period of decline from the late 19th century greatly damaged the industry. While Scotland can count over 100 distilleries, Ireland currently only has seven in operation, and three of these are newcomers with no established products in the market yet. Irish whiskey has, however, seen a great resurgence in popularity since the late twentieth century, and has been up there with the fastest growing spirits in the world.
5. France
Whisky exports 2023: $474,240,278
Whilst more world-renowned for Wine and other spirits, France remains one of the biggest exporters of whisky on the global stage. In terms of domestically produced whisky in France, some notable brands include Armorik, Brenne, Michel Couvreur and Rozelieures. France is producing some great whisky but much of what they export is actually originally imported and has gone through a finishing process in France.
Scotch is often matured or re-matured in French casks, and (for example, sherry cask finishing) this process produces some of the most popular whisky worldwide. The bottlings for this are often marked as ‘French-finished’ whiskies and are one of the reasons why France remains one of the major importers and exporters of whisky from the latest data in 2023.
6. Netherlands
Whisky exports 2023: $429,732,560
The Netherlands is one of the biggest exporters of whiskey in the world, but as is the case with France and Singapore, this is largely through re-exporting as opposed to domestic production. Rotterdam is the busiest port in the EU and added approximately 34 billion euros to the country’s export value by acting as a logistical and transport hub. Rotterdam and Amsterdam provide strong ports from which international whiskey can flow. This also allows for a hub by which whisky can be exported to other EU countries.
7. Germany
Whisky exports 2023: $408,301,284
Germany ranks number 7 in the list according to UN trade data on whiskey exporters. The country has a strong domestic spirits tradition, and this is supported by over 250 whiskey distilleries in the country in regions like Bavaria that are using local ingredients and developing a spirit with a distinctive style. In addition to the domestic production (which is of course far smaller than the other producers on this list), there is also a strong importing and exporting element of this country's market, similar in fashion to the Netherlands, France and Singapore.
8. Germany
Whisky exports 2023: $356,545,962
Suntory’s Yamazaki Single Malt Sherry Cask 2013 was recently named ‘the best whisky in the world’ by Jim Murray in his annual Whisky Bible. This caused quite a stir, but it was not out of the blue. Japan has been making whisky since the early 1920s when the Yamazaki distillery was built near Kyoto. In those early days, Japanese whisky was modelled on Scotch. Indeed, Suntory’s master distiller studied his craft in Scotland for this purpose. He spent three years in Scotland, returning to Japan, where he was instrumental in setting up Yoichi distillery.
Japan earns a ranking in the top 10 whisky exporting countries thanks to the growing popularity of its domestic market amongst younger enthusiasts and the wider market.
Japan distils its whisky twice, in copper pot stills, and it recognises the very important role that oak plays in the maturation of the spirit. Considerable amounts of Scottish malted barley, some of it peated, is imported into Japan.
The recent revival of Japan’s whisky fortunes has been built, more steadily, on export sales. The reputation of Japanese whisky as a high-quality product has been further enhanced by many international whisky awards. The future looks bright for Japanese whisky.
9. Canada
Whisky exports 2023: $251,495,065
Canada produces around 20 million cases of whisky, with three high-selling brands: Crown Royal, Black Velvet and Canadian Club representing a large proportion of all sales. Canada’s whisky is noted for its light and smooth style, and most of it is blended. However, there is a broad range available, and some brands, including those with a strong rye influence, are complex and rich in flavour.
Canadian whisky laws stipulate that the product must be aged for a minimum of three years, in oak casks, and it allows for caramel to be added. On these two counts it mirrors Scotch whisky.
10. UAE
Whisky exports 2023: $244,857,197
The UAE is one of the biggest exporters of whiskey in the world in terms of dollar value and, similar to some of the other countries on this list, has earnt this spot through being a major re-exporting hub of whiskey as opposed to domestic production. The UAE does not actually produce any whiskey; it and Singapore are the only countries in this list that have no domestic production.
Whiskey exported by the UAE typically ends up in neighbouring countries including India, Kuwait, Oman and even Saudi Arabia. The sale or public consumption of alcohol is strictly banned in Saudi Arabia except within the Diplomatic Quarters, where a licensed government-run liquor store was opened in early 2024 specifically for non-Muslim diplomats and their guests.
Top 10 Whisky importing countries
1. United States
Whisky imports 2023: $1,937,748,275
The United States is a big producer of whisky, but they are also one of the world’s largest importers of whisky, reflecting a deep appreciation for both domestic and international styles.
While American consumers enjoy homegrown whiskies like bourbon and Tennessee whiskey, they are also enthusiastic about Scotch, Irish and Japanese whiskies. The rise of whisky bars, collectors and connoisseurs across the US has helped fuel demand for single malts, aged blends and rare editions.
The premium segment of the market is expanding, with growing interest in neat sipping, limited releases and high-end bottlings, particularly from Scotland and Japan. These trends continue to make the USA one of the biggest players in both whisk(e)y exports and imports.
2. France
Whisky imports 2023: $877,840,516
France might be best known for its wine and cognac, but it is also one of the biggest whisky-drinking nations in the world and a top importer. France imports a lot of Scotch Whisky, but as shown with their strong export performance, there is a strong trend of ‘French finished’ whiskey, which is also very popular.
The country's strong appetite for whisky helps explain its active role as both an importer and a secondary exporter. French finishing in wine or cognac casks and bottling are common, adding further value before whiskies are sold on or consumed domestically.
3. Singapore
Whisky imports 2023: $864,525,493
Singapore continues to cement its reputation as one of the world’s most important whisky trade hubs. Despite a relatively small population and modest per-capita consumption, its import volume is vast due to its status as a re-export centre. The presence of Free Trade Zones allows whisky to move through Singapore without incurring taxes until it reaches its final destination. These regulatory advantages have made Singapore a key transit and storage point for whisky heading to other parts of Asia.
4. Taiwan
Whisky imports 2023: $723,617,973
Taiwan has become a surprise heavyweight in the global whisky market. Known for a discerning consumer base and a growing collector culture, the Taiwanese market values high-quality single malts, particularly from Scotland and Japan.
Brands like Kavalan have also helped put Taiwanese whisky on the map. This local prestige, combined with robust demand for imports, makes Taiwan one of the most influential markets for premium whisky worldwide.
5. Netherlands
Whisky imports 2023: $622,152,867
As with its whisky export profile, the Netherlands is both a consumer and a logistical hub. Rotterdam and Amsterdam serve as major ports for the distribution of whisky throughout mainland Europe.
Dutch consumers enjoy a variety of whiskies, including Scotch, Irish, American and increasingly Japanese, and the country’s role as a bottling, labelling and re-export centre reinforces its strong performance on this list.
6. China
Whisky imports 2023: $584,642,311
China’s rising middle class and luxury goods appetite have driven a boom in premium spirits, and whisky has emerged as one of the biggest beneficiaries. Imports continue to rise, with younger consumers embracing whisky culture through cocktail bars, whisky tastings and collector events.
Scotch dominates the category, but Japanese whisky and increasingly American brands are also gaining traction. The Chinese whisky market is expected to grow significantly in the next decade as education and brand awareness increase.
7. Germany
Whisky imports 2023: $526,879,206
Germany has a strong whisky community, both as a consumer and a producer. Import figures show the popularity of Scotch blends and single malts, alongside Irish whiskies and a growing taste for American bourbons.
Whisky festivals, clubs and collector groups are common across the country. Much like the Netherlands, Germany also functions as an entry point for whisky into the European market, enhancing its overall import figures.
8. Japan
Whisky imports 2023: $494,985,454
Despite being a leading whisky-producing country, Japan is also a major importer. This is due to a strong demand for Scotch, Irish and American whiskies, particularly among collectors and enthusiasts. Whisky bars are a mainstay of Japanese nightlife, and there is great interest in rare or limited international editions. Japanese consumers value craftsmanship, complexity and heritage, making it a welcoming market for imported premium brands.
The 1970s and 1980s were boom times for Japanese whisky. Such was the local demand that many sake distilleries were converted to produce whisky. However, foreign producers soon spotted the opportunity and began exporting to Japan. Scotch, American and Irish whiskies all entered the market and competed successfully with domestic producers. Uniquely, there were no significant tax barriers put in place to protect local production, meaning imported whiskies competed on a level playing field and helped shape the diverse whisky culture that exists in Japan today.
9. India
Whisky imports 2023: $391,414,176
As a country, India drinks the most whiskey in the world, although much of this is domestic or locally bottled. However, import figures are rising, particularly at the premium and ultra-premium levels. The Indian whisky market is evolving fast, with an expanding middle class and growing interest in single malts, both foreign and local. Scotland remains the key source, though Japanese and American whiskies are gaining fans. Tariff reductions in the future could significantly increase import volumes.
Indian whisky deserves a special mention as a category in its own right. The market is enormous, with approximately 250 million cases sold annually, although data can be inconsistent. A key difference is that much of what is sold as whisky in India is made not from cereals, but from molasses, and is then artificially flavoured. These products are typically unaged, which disqualifies them from being recognised as whisky under EU regulations.
To enhance flavour and appeal, many locally made Indian whiskies are "top-dressed" with a small quantity of genuine Scotch whisky. At the higher end, however, India is producing some world-class expressions. Amrut Distillers led the way by crafting whisky that complies with international standards, and more recently, brands like Indri and Rampur have gained recognition, helping establish India as a home of high-quality whisky with global appeal.
10. Spain
Whisky imports 2023: $390,489,354
Spain rounds out the top 10, with a large domestic demand for blended Scotch whisky. The Spanish whisky market is long established, and whisky is frequently consumed with mixers or as part of traditional social drinking.
While blended Scotch dominates, interest in single malts and world whiskies is growing, with an increase in whisky bars, festivals and specialist retailers across major cities like Madrid and Barcelona.
FAQs: Whisky around the world
- Which country drinks the most whisky per capita?
France drinks by far the most whiskey per-capita, according to Quartz, they feature alongside other large consumption countries including Uruguay, the USA and Australia. Interestingly, India falls behind the UK when it comes to whiskey consumption per head.
- Is India the biggest whisky market?
In terms of total consumption, yes India is by far the world’s largest whiskey market. The nation consumed around 260 million cases in 2024 and accounted for nearly 50% of global whiskey consumption.
- What country imports the most Scotch whisky?
Looking specifically at the Scotch whisky market, by volume, India leads the way with around 192 million bottles in 2024. With the new trade deal struck between the UK and India in 2025, this may well increase and strengthen in the coming years.