US tariffs on European wines

From 1 August 2025, the US will raise tariffs on European wine and spirits from 10% to 15%, unless negotiators reach a new deal. Talks are expected to resume in the autumn, with EU officials pushing for either zero tariffs or fixed Most Favoured Nation (MFN) rates.

The EU remains determined to secure a better outcome, particularly for wine, where MFN rates would translate to just a few cents per litre. While spirits once enjoyed tariff-free trade under a 1997 agreement, uncertainty remains over whether this will be reinstated.

A senior EU diplomat confirmed that discussions will continue after the US and EU finalise their framework trade deal, agreed last weekend. Industry observers are watching closely, with producers hoping that autumn negotiations could roll back the tariff hike and keep transatlantic trade flowing smoothly. For now, the 15% rate looms large over exporters.