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Kentucky governor visits Asia to boost bourbon growth
The governor of Kentucky is to promote the region’s bourbon in the Far East with a seven-day trip to Taiwan and Japan.
This week Governor Steve Beshear will tour the two countries along with representatives from the Kentucky Distillers’ Association to “enhance economic ties” and promote Kentucky’s signature spirit.
The trip is part of Beshear’s three-year trade and export promotion, the Kentucky Export Initiative, which aims to increase the number of small businesses that export.
“We’re looking forward to capitalizing on the enormous potential that exists for Kentucky’s Bourbon industry in Taiwan, as well as strengthening existing relationships and building new ones that will further enhance our economic ties with Taiwan and Japan,” he said.
Kentucky currently ships around 28.7 million gallons of bourbon to 126 countries, accounting for 95% of of the world’s supply.
With Asian interest in whisky and bourbon growing rapidly, Beshear is keen to ensure Taiwanese and Japanese consumers are buying Kentucky’s brands.
“Kentucky Bourbon is more than just a drink, it’s a top global export and an international icon of Kentucky tradition and craftsmanship,” said Eric Gregory, president of the Kentucky Distillers’ Association. “We’re looking forward to working with Taiwanese officials and Gov. Beshear to further promote our signature spirit in this promising market.”