Scotch Whisky chief raises glass to Botswana

Scotch whisky has been given protected geographical status in Africa for the first time, industry bosses said yesterday.
SWA boss David Frost hailed the 'protected geographical status' ruling in Botswana. Picture: ContributedSWA boss David Frost hailed the 'protected geographical status' ruling in Botswana. Picture: Contributed
SWA boss David Frost hailed the 'protected geographical status' ruling in Botswana. Picture: Contributed

David Frost, chief execuitve of the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA), said it was “ground-breaking” that the drink had been recognised as a “geographical indication” by Botswana.

The move means only whisky that has been made in Scotland can legally be sold as Scotch in the country.

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Whisky shipments to Botswana increased by 163 per cent last year to be worth £456,728, according to SWA figures.

Frost said: “We expect to see demand for Scotch increase in many African countries in coming years as economies grow.

“It’s important that consumers have confidence in the quality of what they are buying, which this recognition of Scotch as a ‘geographical indication’ will help to achieve. It’s also the first time Scotch has been successfully registered as a GI anywhere in Africa.”