The Irish Whiskey Association confirmed that global sales of Irish whiskey reached a record 16.15 million cases in 2024, marking the strongest year on record for the sector.

The USA, Poland, Germany, India, and the United Kingdom were the top five export markets. Domestic sales in Ireland reached 707,000 cases.

The United States remains the largest single market, accounting for over 5.47 million cases (€5.47m equivalent bottles), representing roughly one in three bottles sold globally. Despite this success, the association cautioned that the 15% import tariff on EU spirits in the US creates uncertainty for its largest and most valuable export market.

The association reiterated the need for a zero-for-zero trading arrangement between the EU and the US to stabilise the market. Beyond the US, Irish whiskey is expanding rapidly in emerging markets. Japan and India have recorded exceptional three-year growth rates of 124% and 120%, respectively, while within the EU, ten of the top 20 markets are EU member states.

Director Eoin Ó Catháin said the sector has “weathered a turbulent trading period this year” but noted that “the numbers from 2024 are promising for our sector with the biggest sales volume ever, and our market position in new and emerging markets is getting stronger.” He highlighted that continued growth depends on strengthening EU-US trade relations and opening high-potential markets, including the implementation of an EU-India Free Trade Agreement.

The association emphasised that Irish whiskey accounts for only 12% of the global whiskey market, suggesting significant room for expansion through strategic trade and market diversification. Advocacy for rapid implementation of trade agreements and tariff removal remains a central priority for 2026.

Discover how the Irish Whiskey Association plans to leverage new trade opportunities to expand global market presence in the full story.