Argentina has given Scotch Whisky its seal of approval as the first ever international product to receive Geographical Indication (GI) status in the country.
The protection recognises what makes a dram of Scotch truly special – centuries of craftsmanship, distinctive production methods, and unmistakable Scottish character.
This legal protection ensures products labelled as Scotch Whisky are genuine and meet strict production standards. This will help tackle counterfeit products, giving shoppers confidence they are buying an authentic product and distillers reassurance to expand their presence in a market without risk of imitation products undermining their reputation.
Trade Minister Douglas Alexander said: “Scotch Whisky is the first foreign product to receive special protection in Argentina which is testament to not only the strength of our trade ties with Argentina, but the prestige and reach of Scotland’s world-renowned product.
“This is another win for an industry already bolstered by our deal with India which slashes whisky tariffs by half immediately and then down even further in the years to come, demonstrating our action to boost Scotland’s businesses and delivering economic growth under the Plan for Change.”
Scottish Secretary Ian Murray said: “There is no substitute for authentic Scotch Whisky and it’s fantastic news that collaborative work between the UK Government and Scotch Whisky Association has convinced the Argentine authorities to give our national drink – and one of our biggest exports – the protection it deserves.
“Opening up new markets and expanding existing ones for our producers is key to growing the economy and the UK Government’s Plan for Change. Scotland’s food and drink industry and our Brand Scotland campaign will play an important part in that. This is excellent news to all the whisky producers who put Scotland on the global stage with our world-famous spirit. Salud!”