The product for which the EU is still trying to provide zero rates with new American taxes on the verge of
Donald Trump and Ursula von der Leyen discussed in Turnberry, Scotland, Sunday, July 27, 2025. Credit: Jacquelyn Martin / AP / Profimedia
The European Union said on Thursday that it is expected that so the precious wine sector will be affected, as well as most European products, with the entry into force of US customs duties this week, but negotiations are being carried out, AFP reports.
Brussels and Washington have announced on the weekend a commercial agreement, which stipulates that most EU exports to the US will face a 15% tax starting on Friday, with a number of exceptions, as is the case with aircraft.
France, Italy and other wine producing countries have insisted on zero tariffs for alcohol, including champagne, wines and spirits, but these discussions are in progress.
“We do not expect wine and spirits to be included as an exception in the first group announced by the US tomorrow and, therefore, this sector, like all the other economic sectors, will be covered by the 15%ceiling,” said the European Commission spokesman, Olof Gill, in a press conference.
The European Commission, which manages the trade policy for the 27 nations block, was determined to obtain and ensure a maximum number of exceptions, including for wine and spirits, the official added.
“We continue to negotiate with our US partners,” the European Commission representative said.
US, the main external market for EU wines
The US is the main export destination for European wines, representing 27% of total exports as value, according to industry figures.
The level of 15%, agreed after months of negotiations, is much higher than the American tariffs that existed for European goods – on average 4.8%.
However, the “framework” agreement concluded on Sunday established only the general principles of understanding, and many details were still unclear or in the process of negotiation.
The spokesman of the European Commission said that they are working on the completion of a common statement which, although not yet legally compulsory, should bring some clarity.
“The US has made these commitments. Now it is up to the US to implement them. The ball is in their land,” Gill added.
