We’ve got another round of high-stakes international trade drama brewing—this time featuring President Donald Trump, a 200% tariff threat, and, of course, French wine. If you thought the last trade war was spicy, wait until you see what happens when you mess with America’s whiskey.
Here’s the situation: Trump fired off a post on Truth Social on Thursday, making it clear that if the European Union doesn’t back down from its planned tariff on American whiskey, he’s ready to strike back—hard. And by hard, we mean slapping a massive 200% tariff on wines, champagnes, and other alcoholic products coming out of France and EU-represented countries. His reasoning? Not only does he see it as a fair response, but he also thinks it’ll be a big boost for American wine and champagne businesses.
Now, why is the EU going after American whiskey in the first place? Well, it’s retaliation for Trump’s previous 25% tariffs on steel and aluminum imports. The European Commission announced on Wednesday that it would hit back with counter-tariffs on $28 billion worth of U.S. goods exports. And, naturally, whiskey landed right in the crosshairs.
Trump tweeting EU will now have a 200% Tariff on all of its wine and alcoholic beverages. pic.twitter.com/iLwvZRpqKP
— Merlin Capital 🧙♂️ (@merlinscapital) March 13, 2025
France isn’t taking this lying down. French Trade Minister Laurent Saint-Martin shot back, accusing Trump of escalating a trade war that, in his words, “he chose to start.” Meanwhile, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is playing a more measured hand, calling the EU’s response “strong but proportionate.” The plan? Their countermeasures will roll out in two phases, starting April 1 and fully in place by April 13—though she left the door open for negotiations.
“Donald Trump is escalating the trade war he has chosen to unleash. France remains determined to retaliate with the European Commission and our partners. We will not give in to threats and will always protect our sectors,” Laurent posted on X.
Now, let’s talk numbers. EU wine exports to the U.S. last year were worth about 4.9 billion euros, making up nearly a third of the EU’s total wine exports. Of that, France accounted for almost half, with Italy close behind at around 40%. So, if Trump follows through with his 200% tariff, European winemakers—especially in France—are going to feel the pain.
But let’s be real: This isn’t just about wine and whiskey. This is another chapter in the ongoing economic battle between the U.S. and the EU, where tariffs are wielded like weapons. The big question now is whether this escalates into a full-blown trade war or if both sides find a way to negotiate before things spiral out of control. Either way, keep an eye on your favorite bottle of Bordeaux—because the price tag might be about to skyrocket.
