Brewers call for tariff-free trade
The Brewers of Europe have recently expressed its deep regret that the EU–US joint statement published on 21 August has failed to deliver Most Favoured Nation (MFN) terms for beer.
EU beer exports to the United States are now burdened by a punitive 15% tariff – with canned beers hit even harder due to the additional 50% tariff on aluminium derivatives.
The Brewers of Europe notes positively and appreciates that beer was identified again by EU commissioner Maroš Šefčovič
The double blow is weighing heavily on EU brewers, farmers, and the many partners along its supply chains.
It is disappointed that a zero-for-zero tariff arrangement was not achieved to deliver benefits to both economies, thereby restoring predictability, stimulating investment, and giving consumers greater choice.
The United States is the largest export market by value for European beer.
A 15% tariff is a massive burden, the Brewers of Europe state.
The absence of MFN treatment penalises not just Europe’s brewers, but also US consumers, distributors, retailers, and hospitality workers who appreciate and rely on the variety, quality, and heritage of European beers, it continued.
The Brewers of Europe notes positively and appreciates that beer was identified again recently by EU commissioner Maroš Šefčovič as one of the priority sectors for which the EU is still seeking a zero-for-zero outcome.
This recognition is an important signal that the sector’s concerns are being heard and must remain central to the next phase of talks.
The Brewers of Europe secretary general Julia Leferman urged the Commission to redouble its efforts to swiftly secure zero-for-zero for beer.
She said: “Beer has long been a cornerstone of EU–US trade, built on a unique ecosystem of collaboration.
“EU and US brewers work together across borders, while raw materials move in both directions to brew the full diversity of beer styles.
“Restoring fair and reciprocal trade terms would allow the transatlantic beer market to flourish once more – to the benefit of farmers, brewers, distributors, hospitality workers and consumers in both Europe and the United States.”
The Brewers of Europe stands ready to work constructively with the European Commission, US counterparts and industry partners to achieve a durable, balanced and tariff-free solution that reflects the longstanding spirit of EU–US partnership and collaboration in beer.
