Irish whiskey exports surpassed €1bn in 2024 after more than 15m cases were sold last year.

The Irish Whiskey Association to mark International Irish Whiskey Day has also published its latest “Irish Whiskey in Numbers” data set, illustrating the industry’s growth.

The latest figures from Bord Bia and the International Wine and Spirits Record (IWSR) show that Irish Whiskey sales exceeded 15m cases last year.

Notably, exports to India surged by 107%, making it the fastest-growing market.

Director of the Irish Whiskey Association, Eoin Ó Catháin, said he hopes to harness this growth going forward.

“The success of the Irish Whiskey sector is due to the innovation, resilience and hard work of our Irish Whiskey producers – passionate distillers that are found in almost every county in Ireland, deeply proud of the heritage of Irish Whiskey," he explained.

"Last year, we celebrated 700 Years of Irish Whiskey Tradition: 700 years since the publication of the Red Book of Ossory, with its instructions for distilling aqua vitae – or uisce beatha – which of course we know today as whiskey.

"The ongoing hard work and ingenuity of Irish Whiskey producers provides a solid platform for the next 700 years!”

Irish Whiskey is largely an international product – Ireland exports 90% of what it produces – and this premium product is finding favour in new and emerging markets. 

As a Geographical Indication (GI) product since 1989, Irish Whiskey can only be distilled on the island of Ireland and is subject to strict production standards. 

Irish Whiskey is currently sold in 113 markets, and in over 90% of these markets, it enjoys legal protection.

The industry also makes a significant contribution to the Irish economy.

The Brewing and Distilling sector supports over 10,000 jobs, while also driving employment in hospitality, tourism, and agriculture. 

Irish Whiskey 360° was established by the Irish Whiskey Association to promote the distillery tour and visitor experiences available to domestic and international tourists – with over 800,000 visitors to member distilleries last year.