US President Donald Trump has issued a stern warning of a potential 200 per cent tariff on European wines, champagne, and spirits should the European Union proceed with its planned tariff on American whiskey. This EU tariff was anticipated to come into effect on April 1.
In a recent social media statement, Trump accused the EU of being “one of the most hostile and abusive taxing and tariffing authorities in the World,” asserting that it was formed primarily to exploit the United States. He expressed his dissatisfaction with the impending tariff on American whiskey, which he views as unfair and a direct challenge to US interests.
Trump declared, “If this Tariff is not removed immediately, the US will shortly place a 200% Tariff on all WINES, CHAMPAGNES, & ALCOHOLIC PRODUCTS COMING OUT OF FRANCE AND OTHER EU REPRESENTED COUNTRIES.” He elaborated that such a move would benefit the wine and champagne sectors in the US.
The Republican leader hinted at his intentions to retaliate during an interaction with reporters at the Oval Office, confirming, “Of course I will respond.”
This situation underscores the escalating trade tensions between the US and the EU, with both sides locked in a tit-for-tat scenario that could significantly impact the alcoholic beverage industry on both sides of the Atlantic.