spiritsEUROPE calls on EU & US: “Stop using us as a bargaining chip”
Trump’s latest tariff proposals are in retaliation for a 50% levy on American bourbon whiskey announced by the EU
spiritsEUROPE is deeply alarmed by the renewed threat of tariffs on EU and US spirits – once again, as part of an entirely unrelated dispute.
The US president Donald Trump has threatened a 200% tariff on wine and champagne from European Union countries, in the latest threat of escalation in the global trade war started by the US against the EU.
Trump said in a post on his Truth Social platform that the tariffs on all alcoholic products from the EU would be in retaliation for a “nasty” 50% levy on American bourbon whiskey announced by the EU.
The EU’s action against American whiskey was part of a €26bn response to Trump’s 25% tariffs on steel and aluminium imports, which came into effect on Wednesday.
“This cycle of tit-for-tat retaliation must end now! We urge both sides to stop using our sector as a bargaining chip in conflicts that have nothing to do with us.” said Pauline Bastidon, director Trade & Economic Affairs.
Spirits trade exemplifies how open markets create mutual benefits. Reimposing tariffs would be a step backward—hurting businesses, workers, and consumers on both sides.
“The EU and US must de-escalate this dispute now and ensure spirits are never again caught in the crossfire.” she added.
Transatlantic spirits trade has thrived tariff-free since 1997, with brief but damaging disruptions due to past unrelated disputes. The spirits sector is fully united in its commitment to keeping it that way. EU spirits companies have invested heavily in US production, including American Whiskey, just as US spirits companies own distilleries across the EU, producing regionally distinctive products tied to local heritage.
“We are each other’s top markets—interwoven by investment, tradition, and shared success, so keep spirits out!” she concluded.
