The Artisanal Spirits Company, owner of the Scotch Malt Whisky Society (SMWS), has announced the opening of a new subsidiary for the global whisky community in Taiwan.

The newly established SMWS Taiwan will replace the existing franchise agreement that the organisation had in the country. Taiwan is currently the third-largest market globally for ultra-premium Scotch whisky, with an estimated market value of US$593 million in 2022, according the IWSR.

The strength of interest in Scotch whisky in the country has been evidenced by the reception for SMWS Taiwan, which enrolled 500 members on its first day in operation. From here, the Artisinal Spirits Company says it wants to drive engagement with members and sales through in-person events, the SMWS website, and social media and digital marketing.

SMWS already operates similar subsidiaries in China and Japan, and holds franchise agreements in countries including Malaysia and South Korea. 

The Taiwanese subsidiary (which will still be 70 per cent owned by Artisanal Spirits Company) is led by Murphy Chang, former brand heritage manager for Moët Hennessy Taiwan, who will oversee all operations as country director; whisky expert and former franchise partner Eric Huang; and Andrew Dane, CEO of Artisanal Spirits Company, who will be chairman of SMWS Taiwan.

Dane said: “Taiwan is one of the world’s largest and most sophisticated whisky markets. The new subsidiary expands our footprint in Asia and gives us direct access to this exciting territory, helping us to capture demand for our unique combination of ultra-premium and limited edition whiskies and outstanding experiences and knowledge.

“Launching the Taiwan subsidiary was a key strategic objective for 2023 and we are delighted that this has been delivered so successfully... We look forward to welcoming many new members to the Scotch Malt Whisky Society in this market as we continue to expand our reach across Asia.”