US spirits exports tumble as drinkers shun American brands, industry warns

-Exports of U.S. spirits fell 9% in the second quarter, according to a report by the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States published on Monday, which warned that trade tensions were hitting demand in key markets. The decline marked a sharp reversal from 2024's strong export performance, with steep drops across major markets including the European Union, Canada, Britain and Japan, which together represent 70% of total exports by value, DISCUS said. The trade association represents top spirits makers, including Jameson Irish whiskey maker Pernod Ricard and Brown-Forman, which produces Jack Daniel's.