Trump Threatens EU With 200 Percent Tariff on Wines and Spirits – wna24

In a sharp escalation of trade tensions between the U.S. and the European Union (EU), President Donald Trump has threatened to impose a 200% tariff on alcoholic beverages imported from EU nations. This move comes in response to the EU’s decision to slap a 50% tariff on American whiskey, a decision that Trump has strongly condemned.

Taking to his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump called the EU “one of the most hostile and abusive taxing and tariffing authorities in the world” and warned that unless the European bloc removes its tariff immediately, the U.S. will impose heavy duties on wine, champagne, and other alcoholic beverages from France and other EU countries.

“If this Tariff is not removed immediately, the U.S. will shortly place a 200% Tariff on all WINES, CHAMPAGNES, & ALCOHOLIC PRODUCTS COMING OUT OF FRANCE AND OTHER E.U. REPRESENTED COUNTRIES,” Trump posted. “This will be great for the Wine and Champagne businesses in the U.S.”

The latest trade spat erupted after the EU imposed tariffs on $28 billion worth of American goods in response to Trump’s 25% tariff on steel and aluminum, which took effect on Wednesday. The EU described its measures as “swift and proportionate,” targeting key American industries, including bourbon, boats, and motorcycles.

The U.S. spirits industry has expressed concern over the impact of these tariffs. Chris Swonger, CEO of the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States, criticized the EU’s move, calling it “deeply disappointing” and warning that it would severely hurt American whiskey exports.

Speaking from the Oval Office on Wednesday, Trump confirmed that the U.S. would respond to the EU’s actions. “Of course, I will respond,” he was quoted as saying in a CNN report. He has also hinted at additional tariffs set to take effect on April 2, raising fears of further retaliation from the EU.

According to CNN, Wall Street analysts have raised concerns over the economic impact of these escalating trade policies, but Trump has shown no signs of backing down.

With tensions rising, all eyes are on how the EU will respond to Trump’s threat. If the U.S. goes ahead with its 200% tariff on European wines and spirits, the EU could retaliate with additional measures, further escalating the trade war.

For now, businesses on both sides of the Atlantic are bracing for potential disruptions, as the dispute threatens to impact major industries and global trade relations.