The Trump administration has reignited transatlantic trade friction, proposing a jaw-dropping 200% tariff on EU wines and spirits—a move experts warn could turn happy hour into a global showdown . The threat comes after the EU imposed 50% tariffs on American whisky in response to new U.S. steel and aluminum levies.
France Fires Back
France—the world's second-largest wine exporter—vowed retaliation through the European Commission. Laurent Saint-Martin, France's trade minister, declared on X: 'We won't cave to pressure,' while EU Commission President von der Leyen emphasized openness to talks with a side of resolve: 'We'll defend our interests.'
Why It Matters
Think global supply chains are complicated? Try adding whiskey and wine to the mix. Croatia's Prof. Luka Brkic warns tariffs hurt everyone, while European industry groups plead: 'Keep alcohol out of trade wars.' Meanwhile, whiskey lovers might soon feel the pinch—Ireland’s Whisky Association predicts prices could skyrocket.
The stakes? Europe's $38B wine industry vs. America's $5B whisky exports. Grab your popcorn—this trade drama’s only getting started.
. The threat comes after the EU imposed 50% tariffs on American whisky in response to new U.S. steel and aluminum levies.
France Fires Back
France—the world's second-largest wine exporter—vowed retaliation through the European Commission. Laurent Saint-Martin, France's trade minister, declared on X: 'We won't cave to pressure,' while EU Commission President von der Leyen emphasized openness to talks with a side of resolve: 'We'll defend our interests.'
Meanwhile, whiskey lovers might soon feel the pinch—Ireland’s Whisky Association predicts prices could skyrocket.
The stakes? Europe's $38B wine industry vs. America's $5B whisky exports. Grab your popcorn—this trade drama’s only getting started. 
