US President Donald Trump is turning up the pressure on the European Union, threatening a massive 200% tariff on wine, champagne, and other alcohol imported from Europe. This was reported by Euronews.
The move is a direct retaliation for EU duties currently imposed on American-made whiskey.
Taking to his Truth Social platform on Thursday, Trump didn’t mince words:
“If this tariff is not removed immediately, the US will shortly place a 200% tariff on all wines, champagnes and alcoholic products coming out of France and other EU represented countries,” he wrote, adding that the measure “will be great for the wine and champagne businesses in the US.”
The brewing trade row immediately rattled markets, hitting European alcohol companies hard.
French drinks giant Pernod Ricard saw its stock drop 3.2%, while Rémy Cointreau fell 3.8%. Luxury conglomerate LVMH, owner of major champagne labels like Moët & Chandon and Veuve Clicquot, lost 1.9%.
Trump’s warning stems from EU tariffs introduced during his previous presidency, when Brussels responded to US trade measures by targeting iconic American exports — including whiskey.
While the Biden administration had dialed down some trade tensions, Trump’s latest threat suggests a hardline stance could return if he regains office.
