A major whisky deal with China is set to provide a timely £250 million boost to the embattled industry. The deal, negotiated by Prime Minister Keir Starmer in Beijing today (January 29), will reduce chinese tariffs on Scotch whisky from 10 per cent to 5 per cent. “This isn't just about exports, it’s about securing the future of our local distilleries and the families who depend on them.”Prime Minister Keir Starmer. In a statement released following confirmation of the deal with China, Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: “Our whisky distilleries are the jewel in Scotland's crown. The Scotch Whisky Association said the deal could “re-energise” exports of Scotch whisky.