Drinks Sector

The Irish whiskey category represents 45% of total export value at approximately €930 million, a reduction of 5% on 2024. 

The global whiskey market faced a challenging year, especially in the US, where Irish whiskey exports declined by 5%. Stocks were built up in late 2024 and the first half of 2025 in anticipation of tariffs, which were implemented in August 2025. This situation, combined with a 12% devaluation of the US dollar, made trading into the US challenging as the year progressed.

Exports to the EU were stable, albeit with mixed results. The top market was Germany, which was down earlier in the year but recovered as 2025 progressed. Exports to France were stable, while shipments to Poland were slightly lower after a strong year in 2024. Exports to Belgium, Italy and Spain all showed good levels of growth.

Irish cream liqueur exports rose by 10% in 2025 to €430 million, representing growth of around 20% since 2023. Exports to the US and Canada accounted for over 63% of the total, with both markets performing well in 2025. Exports to the EU were slightly lower, while trade to the UK grew by over 20%. 

Despite a good performance in the US, the market is challenging, with greater competition from non-Irish cream liqueurs, pressure on consumer spending, the depreciation of the US dollar, and the impact of trade tariffs.

In the EU, there were mixed performances. The key markets were Germany (+19%), France (+32%); Spain, Romania, and Poland also performed well. 

Irish beer exports increased by 7% to reach an estimated €350 million. This continued the recovery in exports since 2022, emphasising the resilience of the sector. Exports to the UK declined by 14% after a strong performance in 2024.

EU markets increased by 21%. France was the key market for beer in the EU, with exports up 22%. The German market was 16% higher, with additional growth evident in both Spain and Italy. Exports to the US increased by 14%.