The export volume was up by 2.8pc when compared with 2023. This was due to supply chain inflation, it said.
However, sales of the alcoholic beverages in the Irish market fell by 2pc, reflecting the continued trend in non-alcoholic consumption.
The United States remains the biggest market for spirit-makers in Ireland but with the latest 15pc tariff now placed on producers, a return to a zero-for-zero trading position is the goal, according to David Boyd-Armstrong the spirits chairman at Drinks Ireland.
“The imposition of a 15pc tariff on exports to our biggest market, the United States, is compounded by the weak dollar and continued trade uncertainty,” Mr Boyd-Armstrong said.
“The return to zero-for-zero tariff trading position with the US must remain a top priority for the Government and for EU negotiators.”
Following the US, the UK and Germany were the biggest markets for Irish spirits.
We know that 2025 has been very challenging for our members
India was the fifth-biggest market for Irish whiskey in 2024, growing at the substantial rate of 57.5pc.
With a potential EU-India trade deal being concluded soon, an agreement could deliver a sizeable reduction in tariff rates for producers, it said.
Although the EU-India trade deal is a source of excitement, back at home this year so far is showing challenges for the market. Producers and distillers need more assistance from the Government, according to Aengus King, the spirits director of Drinks Ireland.
“We know that 2025 has been very challenging for our members and their businesses,” he said.
“We appreciate the ongoing efforts of Government to resolve trade issues. Given the current trading environment, distillers and spirits producers need more direct supports to drive export market development and diversification.”
Despite a dip in sales in the Irish market, vodka remained Ireland’s favourite spirit, followed by Irish whiskey and gin. Sales in Ireland of tequila grew by over one-fifth in 2024 compared with the previous year.
Irish whiskey volumes increased globally by 3.6pc, with Irish cream volumes also showing a slight increase.
However, Ireland continues to have the third-highest level of excise tax in Europe, inhibiting investment by producers, the report said.
source