United Kingdom’s export of scotch whisky in the first quarter of this financial year increased to a whopping GBP 1.97 billion, recording a rise of 10.8 per cent as opposed to the same period last year.

As per the data published by Scotch Whisky Association (SWA) post the analysis of data availed from Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC), exports to India have gone up by 44.4 per cent, which accounts to GBP 56 million.

The New Indian Express quoted SWA head Karen Betts as saying, “As the UK leaves the EU, the industry wants to continue to trade with the EU as easily as it has while being able to pursue growth opportunities globally. But in order to flourish overseas, the industry needs support at home.”

“Competitive tax rates are crucial, enabling producers to start up, scale up and invest for growth, such that they continue to be the dynamic job creators, employers, tax generators and exporters that they are”, she added.

Since the UK budget is hardly a fortnight away, some in the industry are calling for reduction of duty on scotch whisky.