NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The Distilled Spirits Council of the United States has welcomed President Donald Trump’s recent move to suspend tariffs. This announcement comes just one day after some Canadian provinces began removing American-made liquors, including Jack Daniel’s, from their store shelves.
Lawson Whiting, CEO of Brown-Forman — the company behind Jack Daniel’s — expressed disappointment with the situation during a Wednesday earnings call.
“This is worse than tariffs because it actually takes away your sales,” Whiting said. He called the Canadian response “frustrating,” although he noted that the market in Canada accounts for only about 1% of Brown-Forman’s global sales. He assured stakeholders that the company would remain stable despite the conflict.
Tennessee Lawmakers and Farmers Voice Concern Over Tariff Impact
Even before the suspension, Tennessee officials had voiced greater concern for local farmers than for whiskey producers. They warned that tariffs could create a ripple effect through the state’s economy.
“This hits the storm on both ends,” Tennessee farmers said, pointing out that the supply chain from farms to bottles could be affected.
Rep. William Lamberth, a Republican from Portland, echoed that sentiment. “I don’t think we have to worry about Jack Daniel’s going out of business because of international tariffs,” he said. “It seems to be popular around the world.”
Spirits Council Warns of Broader Economic Fallout
The Distilled Spirits Council praised Trump’s decision on Thursday, emphasizing that the effects of tariffs reach far beyond liquor producers.
Chris Swonger, President and CEO of the Council, told News 2 that tariffs affect the entire industry — from grain growers and distillers to bartenders and restaurants.
“Our agricultural partners — from the grain to the bottle — are all impacted,” Swonger said. “And let’s not forget the Canadian consumers who love Tennessee whiskey.”
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