Former President Donald Trump’s four-day visit to Scotland is set to conclude with significant engagements, including a meeting with First Minister John Swinney and the opening of a new golf course at his Aberdeenshire resort. The visit has been marked by discussions primarily focused on trade, notably addressing whisky tariffs and geopolitical issues pertaining to the Middle East.
The anticipated meeting between Trump and Swinney aims to address crucial conversations regarding the tariff imposed on Scotch whisky exports to the United States. The current tariff stands at 10 percent, significantly impacting the industry, which constitutes a substantial part of the UK food and drink export market. It is reported that around a fifth of Scotch whisky produced is exported to the U.S., earning approximately £971 million in 2024. As a result, the tariffs are reportedly costing the industry an astounding £4 million weekly.
During his visit, Trump has engaged in a variety of activities, including a friendly round of golf at his prestigious Turnberry resort, where he notably hosted UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. Following their golf outing, the two leaders traveled via Air Force One to RAF Lossiemouth, where they joined Swinney for dinner at Trump’s resort in Balmedie. Sources indicate that the dinner was a constructive affair, with Swinney spending over an hour discussing significant issues with Trump, including the whisky tariffs that are central to the Scottish economy.
Swinney’s strategy concerning the whisky tariffs is to advocate for an exemption based on its significance to the Scottish economy and its cultural heritage. The Scotch Whisky Association highlights that a considerable portion of Scotch whisky is exported to the U.S., and any reduction in tariffs could provide the industry with crucial financial relief. With an upcoming state visit scheduled for September, where Trump is expected to stay with the King at Windsor Castle, there lies a potential window for negotiations regarding the tariffs before Trump returns.
The discourse surrounding energy alternatives has also intertwined with Trump’s visit. The former president has been a vocal critic of wind turbines, describing them as “ugly monsters” and denouncing their impact on Scotland’s natural beauty. Trump has emphasized his preference for traditional energy sources, notably oil and gas, urging the UK to further exploit its North Sea resources instead of relying heavily on wind energy.
Despite his critiques of wind energy, the UK government has maintained a balanced approach to energy production, advocating a mixture of renewable and traditional energy sources. Prime Minister Starmer expressed the belief that oil and gas would coalesce with renewable energy sources like wind and solar as part of the UK’s energy strategy moving forward.
While the visit has drawn considerable media attention, marked by heightened security measures and political protests, it remains primarily a “private” trip blending the spheres of business and politics with Trump’s affinity for golf. The president’s connection to Scotland is multifaceted; his mother, born in the Isle of Lewis, has significantly influenced his investment in Scottish golf resorts.
In summary, Trump’s visit holds considerable implications not only for Scots who look to maintain the legacy of whisky exports but also for the broader discussions on energy policies and international relations. As the visit wraps up with the opening of the new golf course, the outcome of his discussions with Swinney could pave the way for favorable changes in tariff regulations, offering a hopeful trajectory for Scottish exports in the future.
