Trump Throws Most Stubborn Tariff Throwdown At Europe
In a flashy move that could make the EU feel a little dampened, former President Donald Trump just dropped a 200% tariff threat on all wine and other alcoholic goodies coming from the European Union. He says this will happen if Europe doesn’t pull back on its 50% levy on whisky.
Why the Gusto? The Back‑and‑Forth on Whiskey and Bourbon
Earlier this week, Canada and the EU retaliated by slapping a 50% tariff on Kentucky Bourbon, a cheeky move to get into the President’s gut. Meanwhile Trump’s administration had already slapped 25% tariffs on steel and aluminium coming in from the EU, setting the stage for a full‑blown trade standoff.
What’s on the Table for the US?
- The EU plans to hit US goods worth about €26 billion at the start of April.
- Trump slammed the EU as “the most hostile and abusive taxing and tariffing authority in the world.”
- He’s warning that if the whisky tariff stays, the US will soon launch a 200% levy on wines, champagnes, and any alcoholic goods from French or other EU nations.
Reactions Across The Atlantic
Howard Lutnik, the US Commerce Secretary, floated the idea that America is going to “teach the rest of the world respect” when it comes to trade. Meanwhile, European stock markets bit back: Germany’s Dax slid 0.6% and France’s CAC 40 dipped 0.3% after the headline. The market anxiously eyes the next move in this high‑stakes tango.
What Could It Mean for Your Weekend?
For wine lovers across the Atlantic, a bitter slide in export duties might mean pricier bottles or slower wine fountains in your local shop. For bourbon fans… well, your next tipple might become a little “liquid luxury.”
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