SCOTCH SALES SKYROCKET

Scotch may be an acquired taste but it would seem that much of the world is rapidly gaining an appreciation for the stuff. Scotch whisky exports increased in value by 12 percent in the 12 months to the end of June 2O12, according to figures published by the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA). Growth was seen in the US, Venezuela, Germany and in exports to Russia through the Baltic States in the first six months of the year. Asia remained steady with good growth in Taiwan. This helped Scotch whisky exports maintain their value in the first half of 2O12 at £1.8 billion (US $2.9 billion), despite continuing pressure in some Eurozone countries and the after-effect of an increase of shipments to France last year ahead of a substantial tax rise. In the first half of 2O12, exports to the US jumped by 13 percent and it remains the biggest market by value for Scotch whisky. Venezuela, the ninth biggest market for Scotch, recorded significant growth – leaping 31 percent and India increased 28 percent. In Europe, Germany saw exports increase 4 percent. Latvia and Estonia now appear in the top 2O markets, reflecting a surge in demand in Russia.