British Embassy Showcases Growing Scotch Whisky Market in Israel

Under the warm evening lights of Ramat Gan, the British Embassy in Israel rolled out the barrels quite literally at a special event aimed at promoting one of the UK’s most iconic exports: Scotch whisky. Hosted by UK Ambassador to Israel Simon Walters and the UK's Trade Commissioner for Europe Chris Barton, the evening celebrated the deepening trade ties between the two nations, one smooth dram at a time.

The event offered Israeli guests a curated tasting of five premium Scotch whisky labels, including Glen Scotia, Loch Lomond, Macallan, Mac-Talla, and Ardnamurchan. It brought together whisky importers, Israeli government representatives, and executives from companies with operations across both markets.

Scotch whisky is more than just a drink in Israel it’s a fast-growing industry. In 2024 alone, whisky exports from Scotland to Israel surged by 19%, reaching over NIS 280 million. With approximately six million liters consumed annually, Israel now ranks as the 25th largest global market for Scotch whisky. That’s no small feat for a country known for its Mediterranean palate.

What fuels this growing demand? According to Barton, it’s Israel’s 0% import tariff on whisky. “It’s a win-win as it encourages increased trade partnerships,” he said. The absence of tariffs levels the playing field for imported spirits and has significantly bolstered the popularity of single malts and premium blends.

Ambassador Walters highlighted how whisky symbolizes more than just a business deal it reflects a longstanding partnership between UK distilleries and their Israeli counterparts. Debbie Shapiro, Country Director for the Department of Business and Trade at the embassy, pointed out that Scotch whisky now makes up 23% of Israel’s entire spirits market. Single malts alone are growing at an annual rate of 25%, and online sales are expanding access like never before.

The event also underscored the broader mission of the Department for Business and Trade, which supports Israeli companies entering the UK and vice versa. Beyond whisky, both nations are working on advancing a new free trade agreement that promises to deepen economic collaboration.

This gathering was more than a celebration of fine spirits it was a testament to the robust and evolving economic bond between Israel and the United Kingdom. A toast to trade, innovation, and shared success.

Celebrate the spirit of international partnership share this story and subscribe to our newsletter for more updates on Israel’s economic achievements.