Some 92% of Irish whiskey producers say supply chain delays, as well as rising energy prices and problems with international shipping and port access, have negatively hit production and will likely be a risk in the future, according to a survey by the Irish Whiskey Association .
The annual report notes sales to Russia have"largely ceased" while sales to Ukraine have"substantially" declined. The association has called for an expansion of free trade agreements to reduce tariffs on Irish whiskey in Australia, India, Kenya and Thailand. The whiskey association has been lobbying the EU for a similar arrangement in the upcoming EU-Australia FTA, which is expected early next year.
The key supply chain issues include increased costs and delays in international shipping, including access to ports.