After boycott: Trump defends himself and threatens tariffs on all alcohol from these countries

The president had warned for weeks about his plans to impose reciprocal tariffs on the EU as part of his agenda to reduce the US trade deficit.

Mar 14, 2025 - 05:03

After boycott: Trump defends himself and threatens tariffs on all alcohol from these countries

US President Donald Trump Threatens to Impose Tariffs of Up to 200% on All Alcohol Products from the European Union

US President Donald Trump has threatened to impose tariffs of up to 200% on all alcohol products from the European Union after these countries imposed a 50% tax on US whiskey.

We must acknowledge that alcohol consumption has been a constant in human societies since ancient times, and despite advances in public health, it remains a relevant issue on the global agenda. Today, the sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages represent a multibillion-dollar industry that spans across various economies, cultural habits, and legal regulations. However, despite the various laws and campaigns against excessive consumption, alcohol continues to be one of the most consumed substances worldwide, affecting both public health and social and economic dynamics.

According to a Statista report, the global alcohol market reached a value of $1.5 trillion in 2024 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.3% over the next few years, reaching $2.1 trillion by 2028.

Trump’s New Tariffs

“The European Union, one of the most hostile and abusive tax and tariff authorities in the world, created solely for the purpose of taking advantage of the United States, has just imposed a 50% tariff on whiskey,” Trump, 78, posted on his Truth Social.

“If this tariff is not immediately removed, the US will soon impose a 200% tariff on all wines, champagne, and alcoholic products from France and other countries represented by the EU. This will greatly benefit the wine and champagne sector in the US.”

The president had warned for weeks about his plans to impose reciprocal tariffs on the EU as part of his agenda to reduce the US trade deficit.

“The US does not have free trade. We have ‘stupid trade’. The whole world is ripping us off!!!” Trump blasted on Thursday morning on Truth Social.

The EU announced the 50% tariff on whiskey — which will be imposed in April after deliberations with member states — in response to Trump’s new tariff on all steel and aluminum imports, which went into effect on Wednesday.

European authorities are also preparing counter-tariffs on other US products, such as poultry, beef, dairy, honey, agricultural products, mattresses, chandeliers, and more.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated: “We deeply regret this measure. Tariffs are taxes. They are harmful to businesses and even worse for consumers.”

“These tariffs are disrupting supply chains. They create uncertainty for the economy. Jobs are at stake. Prices will rise, both in Europe and the US.”

She also said that the EU is “open to negotiations” with Trump and wants a “meaningful dialogue” to suspend the tariffs.

Trump has been going back and forth with Canada and Mexico over a 25% tariff in the last month after the two neighboring countries made concessions on border security.