To raise awareness and in support of Israeli wineries, the Israeli Wine Producers Association (IWPA), a trade organisation promoting Israeli wineries through wine education and events, has plead for investment.

The Cask Whisky Association (CWA) has launched to create a safe environment for whisky enthusiasts and customers to buy and sell casks.

A group of over 100 UK drink industry figures have signed a letter written to The Times urging the chancellor to rethink its decision to reverse the alcohol duty freeze.

Portugal’s association of wine traders, Anceve, has called on the government for economic support as it warns rising costs have left many small- and medium-sized producers “on the verge of bankruptcy”.

Shochu can now be sold under its own category name in the state of New York, US, after amendments to the Beverage Control Act allowing Japanese Shochu (24% ABV or under) to be sold under a beer and wine license.

The former British ambassador to Argentina will succeed Karen Betts as the chief executive of the Scotch Whisky Association.

The Wine and Spirit Trade Association has called for the UK government to swiftly remove tariffs on US whiskies.

Tullamore DEW brand ambassador John Quinn has been named the new chairman of trade group Drinks Ireland | Irish Whiskey Association.

Thailand’s beer, wine and spirits industry has implored the government to lift a ban on alcohol sales during the national state of emergency.

The Asia Pacific Travel Retail Association has embarked on a new Responsible Retail Training Programme (RRTP) for DFS staff in stores at Singapore Changi airport.

US craft beer grew by double digits during H1 of 2012 despite the malaise of the US beer market, says the Brewers Association.

The Tax Free World Association (TFWA) has announced that it is to hold a conference in China in March 2013 in conjunction with the Asia Pacific Travel Retail Association (APTRA).

The scotch whisky category belied global economic instability in 2011 by growing sales value 23% to a record £4.2billion.

The Scotch Whisky Association has launched a report, which outlines the number of jobs supported by the scotch whisky industry. 

The UK government has urged the drinks industry to back its Responsibility Deal aimed at countering binge drinking and alcoholism.

The absinthe ban in France has been lifted, according to absinthe brand La Fée.

An Estonian has been named Best Baltic Sommelier after winning the Vana Tallinn Grand Prix 2010.

Scottish Labour’s Alcohol Commission has rejected the Scottish National Party’s (SNP) proposal for minimum pricing.