On March 13, 2025, US President Donald Trump threatened to impose a 200% tariff on wine and alcoholic drinks imported from the European Union (EU) unless the bloc removes its tariffs on US whiskey. This escalation follows the EU’s decision to levy tariffs on American whiskey in retaliation for US tariffs on steel and aluminum imports.
- Trump threatens 200% tariff on EU wine.
- EU imposes levy on US whiskey.
- Trade war escalates, affecting global markets.
- New US tariffs include steel and aluminum.
- Canada and Europe retaliate with tariffs.
The current trade dispute between the united states and the European Union has intensified, with both sides imposing retaliatory tariffs. Trump criticized the EU’s actions as “nasty” and accused it of being “hostile and abusive” towards American goods valued at €26 billion ($28.3 billion). He urged for immediate removal of the EU’s whiskey tariff, claiming that his proposed alcohol tariff would benefit US wine and champagne businesses.
Key details include:
- Trump’s proposed 200% tariff aims to counteract the EU’s levies.
- The EU imposed these tariffs in response to US steel and aluminum duties.
- This trade conflict has raised concerns about economic impacts globally.
In addition to targeting alcohol imports, Trump recently expanded existing tariffs on steel and aluminum to a blanket rate of 25%. Earlier this month, he also increased levies on Chinese imports to at least 20%. Leaders from Canada and Europe have condemned these new taxes as unjustified, leading them to implement their own counter-tariffs against various US products. The ongoing trade war continues to create uncertainty in financial markets worldwide.
This latest threat by President Trump highlights an escalating trade war that is affecting international relations and market stability. As both sides continue to retaliate with higher tariffs, businesses and consumers may face increased prices across various sectors.
